
Is Alere HIV Rapid Test Done 16 Days Post Exposure Reliable?

What do you think about below
I read that Alere HIV Rapid testing is effective. Depending on where you read it will suggest testing anywhere from 12-28 days after contact. If you had the test 16 days after contact how reliable would those results be??
Also, as an additional question...I understand you can have a rapid RNA blood test after 9-11 days....what is the accuracy of this test?? Which test is better for early detection
Alere HIV Rapid testing is the right test to go
Detailed Answer:
Hello XXXX. Thank you for writing back to me.
The Alere HIV Rapid testing is a 4th generation (latest) Hiv test. It would test for both Hiv antibodies as well as P 24 antigen. Since P 24 antigen can be detected as early as 2 weeks after infection therefore this test should be able to detect Hiv infection from 2 weeks onwards. Therefore at 16 days, it is very reliable (sensitive and specific).
RNA PCR is not usually used as a screening test. It is more of a test for Viral load estimation, in those who are Hiv positive, to measure the activity and efficacy of ART drug treatment. It is also very sensitive and accurate, however, it is expensive. However, it has a 5% rate of false positive result (i.e 5 % of patients may get a positive result inspiteof being HIV negative; not very specific).
Therefore in my view Alere HIV Rapid testing is the right test to go, in case you want to, even though I strongly believe that you don't require to undergo an Hiv screening test as there is no risk of Hiv through your fingers.
Regards

Answered by

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
