Which diagnostic technique would you recommend to detect Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in a suspected patient?

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)

The recommended diagnostic technique for the detection of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in a suspected patient is ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay). ELISA is a widely used and highly sensitive test that detects the presence of specific antibodies or antigens in a patient's blood sample.

In the case of AIDS, ELISA is used to detect the presence of antibodies against the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the virus that causes AIDS. The test involves coating a plate with HIV antigens and then adding the patient's blood sample. If the patient has been infected with HIV, their blood will contain specific antibodies that will bind to the antigens on the plate. This binding reaction is then detected using an enzyme-linked detection system, producing a color change that indicates a positive result.

ELISA is known for its high sensitivity and accuracy in detecting HIV infection. However, a positive ELISA result needs to be confirmed by further tests, such as Western blot or PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), to confirm the presence of HIV antibodies or viral genetic material, respectively.

It is important to note that the other diagnostic techniques mentioned, such as MRT (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), ultrasound, and WIDAL test, are not specifically used for the detection of AIDS. MRT and ultrasound are imaging techniques used for visualizing internal structures and organs, while the WIDAL test is used for the diagnosis of typhoid fever, not AIDS.