When and why

These are tests which can image different parts of the body and are, commonly used to investigate many and varied symptoms. Amongst the most common imaging tests used in HIV infection are the chest X-ray and ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis. The chest X-ray is normally carried out when someone has symptoms of cough, breathlessness or chest pain. An ultrasound of the abdomen is useful in investigating the cause of abdominal pain, abnormal swellings and persistent fever.

Simple X-rays and ultrasounds are quick to carry out and usually do not involve any injections or procedures that might cause any discomfort. An ultrasound simply involves a probe being moved around the surface of the abdomen and a chest X-ray standing in front of an X-ray machine as the film is taken.

How it will help

They provide essential information on the structure and form of internal organs and can identify abnormal lumps, swellings and masses. A chest X-ray can also provide information on the presence and severity of a pneumonia. If active tuberculosis is suspected, an X-ray can give a doctor an indication of the need for further tests and of the extent of any damage. However, an X-ray cannot in itself be used to confirm the presence of TB. Further tests are always necessary to diagnose this disease and distinguish it from other lung conditions.