HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Are Negative HIV 1 And 2 Antibody Test Results After 24 Days Of Exposure Conclusive?

Posted on Fri, 18 Sep 2015

Question: Hi, I had a low risk incident (heterosexual one time exposure with male from Denmark, vaginal sex condom broke) 27 days ago. I had an HIV-1 RNA, QUALITATIVE TMA test done at 24 days post exposure and I just got my results back saying the test was non-reactive (HIV -). I have been reading mixed opinions on this test...some doctors are saying it is not a good test, others are saying it can be considered conclusive. My partner took an OraQuick oral swab home test, which was also negative (over 5 months post exposure to last female of unknown status).

1. Can I move on from this? Are my results considered conclusive?
2. Can I trust my partner's negative OraQuick oral test as well?

Thank you so much!

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please do the rapid 4th generation HIV combo test after 30 days

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXX,
Thanks for writing in to us.

I have read through your query in detail.
Please find my observations below.

1. I suggest you wait a week longer and then do the HIV 4th generation rapid combo test. This will test for HIV 1 and 2 antibodies and p24 antigen. The absence of HIV 1 antibody and p24 antigen is conclusive for HIV 1 infection after 30 days.

2. The above test is conclusive for HIV 1 as recommended internationally and by the Center for Disease Control, USA. This test is suggested following international HIV screening guidelines and is a conclusive test when done after 30 days from exposure.

3. You might trust your partners OraQuick test which is negative but it is always better to get tested conclusively by doing the internationally recommended test.

Please feel free to correct any oversight in my interpretation of your problems and discuss them in detail as per your requirements.

Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr.Vivek

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Vivek Chail (33 hours later)

Thank you for your response. My partner agreed to do a blood test on Tuesday, so I will wait to see what his results are before I pay for another test.

The HIV 1 RNA QL test was very expensive. I know this is not the test you recommended above, but can I still place some confidence in these results? It must have been highly recommended by Quest Diagnostics for a reason.

Thanks again!

Answered by Dr. Vivek Chail (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please find details below

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX,
Thanks for writing back with an update.

1. The HIV 1 RNA qualitative test is sensitive and you might accept the results of this test. This test is usually meant for babies who are born to HIV positive mothers and less often used to screen HIV after suspected exposure during unprotected sex.

2. My recommendation is based on internationally followed guidelines for the screening of HIV. This is based on specific guidelines developed by the CDC XXXXXXX

3. It is great that your partner is ready to take the recommended test as early as tuesday. I am sure both of you will come out clean.

Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.

Regards,
Dr.Vivek

Note: Get personalized answers to your HIV related queries You can choose to talk face to face with your doctor. Book a Video Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar