Oral clues, systemic insights: Saliva as a key to HIV detection

Objectives: This study aimed to highlight the diagnostic utility of salivary biomarkers and biosensing technologies for non-invasive HIV detection. Methods: Recent advances in salivary diagnostics, including electrochemical immunoassays, lateral flow devices, microfluidic systems, and nanomaterial-based biosensors, were reviewed. The diagnostic relevance of salivary antibodies, viral RNA, and inflammatory mediators was evaluated. Results: Salivary biomarkers demonstrated strong correlation with systemic HIV infection status. Emerging biosensor technologies enabled rapid, sensitive, and portable point-of-care testing suitable for resource-limited settings. Conclusions: Saliva-based diagnostics represent a promising, patient-friendly alternative for early HIV screening. Integration into dental and primary healthcare settings may strengthen early detection and referral systems.