HIV tests commonly described as “saliva tests” actually use oral fluid, usually collected by swabbing the gums. Most rapid oral-fluid HIV self-tests detect antibodies to HIV rather than the virus itself.
Accuracy depends on the specific test, how correctly it is used and when testing takes place after a possible HIV exposure. Performance figures therefore differ between products and should always be checked in the Instructions for Use supplied with the individual test.
Oral-fluid HIV antibody tests can be highly specific, but they may be less sensitive for very recent HIV infection than blood-based tests. According to the CDC, antibody tests can usually detect HIV 23 to 90 days after exposure, and tests using blood from a vein may detect infection sooner than tests using oral fluid.
For example, the FDA reports an expected sensitivity of approximately 92% and specificity of 99.98% for the OraQuick HIV Self-Test when used with oral fluid. These figures apply to that specific product and should not be assumed to apply to every oral-fluid HIV test.
A non-reactive result obtained during the window period does not completely rule out HIV. If you tested after a recent possible exposure, repeat testing may be necessary after the applicable window period.
You can read more about testing at the right time on our When to test for HIV? page.
For further information about oral-fluid HIV testing, see the CDC information on HIV testing and the FDA information on the OraQuick HIV Self-Test.
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