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

question-icon

Is HIV PCR RNA Test Done 11 Days Post Exposure Conclusive?

default
Posted on Sat, 22 Oct 2016
Question: Hi. I had protected sex with a hooker and there was no exchange of fluids. I was a little worried that the condom may not be 100% effective, so I ran a PCR RNA test after 11 days to check if I had contracted the virus. It returned as a negative result. Given this, can I use the PCR result as a conclusive result and move on?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (49 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
PCR is a reliable test in excluding HIV

Detailed Answer:
hello. thank you for writing to us

I am dr.kakkar(dermatologist and venereologist). I have gone through your query and i have noted your concern

Protected sex is safe i.e a condom if used properly is effective protection against transmission of HIV. Moreover a negative result of PCR for HIV RNA is a reliable test at 11 days post contact and excludes HIV.

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (9 hours later)
Thank you sir. So, now can I be tension free and move on with my life??

Is it?

doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (24 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Your test seems to be conclusive

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

Yes. PCR for hiv is not a routine screening test. This test is commonly used to monitor viral load in Hiv positive patients. Although your PCR test is conclusive but you may take a 4th generation Hiv screening test which is the recommended screening test for Hiv at 2 weeks and beyond. Anyways a condom is effective protection against Hiv.

Regards
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (7 minutes later)
The fear of getting another test scares me, given that PCR is conclusive, there isn't really a necessary, right?

Have I given the test at an accurate time. Some sites say 9-11 days, some say 10-12 days? Am I in the safe zone?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (21 hours later)
Brief Answer:
A 4th generation test is more sensitive and specific

Detailed Answer:
hi

The window period of PCR is short. Its about 9-13 days. Since you tested at day 11 so thats reliable. However 4th generation test is more commonly used as a screening test. It has a higher sensitivity and specificity as compared to PCR. Moreover, a negative 4th generation test would make you doubly sure.

Regards
Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.

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

Dermatologist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 9610 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

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

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Is HIV PCR RNA Test Done 11 Days Post Exposure Conclusive?

Brief Answer: PCR is a reliable test in excluding HIV Detailed Answer: hello. thank you for writing to us I am dr.kakkar(dermatologist and venereologist). I have gone through your query and i have noted your concern Protected sex is safe i.e a condom if used properly is effective protection against transmission of HIV. Moreover a negative result of PCR for HIV RNA is a reliable test at 11 days post contact and excludes HIV. Regards