Are Swollen Lymph Node On Neck,dry Cough And Cold Symptoms Of STD?
No worry from HIV but needs observation
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXX
Thanks for writing in to us.
I have read through your query in detail.
There is no need to worry about HIV infection.
The small lymphnode at the back of neck needs to be observed and if needed an ultrasound scan of neck may be done to evaluate any other levels of neck lymph nodes. Neck lymph nodes are commonly inflammed due to mild illnesses and the ESR also is raised at the same time. Please take note of the swollen lymph node and check for increase in size of development of pain and appearance of nodes any where in the body. Testing by FNAC or biopsy may be done only if a surgeon feels it necessary.
Head lice is the commonest reason for neck lymphnodes in XXXXXXX followed by tuberculosis.
Hope your query has been answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek
Maximum window period is 6 months
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for writing in with an update.
There is no need to worry for HIV in your situation.
With the present guidelines following are the window periods for various HIV testing methods the maximum window period is 6 months with most infected patients testing positive after 3 months.
The latest testing regulations for suspected HIV exposure is
"Patients attending for HIV testing who identify a specific risk occurring more than 4 weeks previously, should not be made to wait 3 months (12 weeks) before HIV testing. They should be offered a 4th generation laboratory HIV test and advised that a negative result at 4 weeks post exposure is very reassuring / highly likely to exclude HIV infection. An additional HIV test should be offered to all persons at 3 months (12 weeks) to definitively exclude HIV infection. Patients at lower risk may opt to wait until 3 months to avoid the need for HIV testing twice."
Hope your query is answered.
Do write back if you have any doubts.
Regards,
Dr.Vivek