A negative ELISA test result indicates what regarding a person's HIV infection status?

• A. The patient definitely has an HIV infection
• B. The patient has antibodies to HIV-1 present
• C. The patient definitely does not have an HIV infection
• D. The patient has no antibodies to HIV-1 present

Answer: (C)

A negative ELISA test result is interpreted primarily as an absence of detected antibodies to the HIV virus in the serum of the individual tested. This implies that it is very likely that the individual does not have an HIV infection, since the test is designed to detect antibodies that would be present if an infection were occurring. It's important to note, however, that a negative ELISA does not definitively rule out an HIV infection. Factors such as very recent infections where antibodies have not yet developed (the "window period") can lead to a false-negative result.

Thus, while a negative result typically indicates that the patient does not have an HIV infection, a follow-up test may be recommended, particularly in cases where exposure to the virus is suspected or in high-risk populations. This cautious approach is due to the limitations of the test in certain situations and the possibility of initially undetectable antibodies.

In summary, the correct interpretation of a negative ELISA test is that it strongly suggests that the individual likely does not have an HIV infection, making option C the best choice.