Is The HIV 1&2 Abs + P24 Ag. Test Done At 51 Days Post Exposure Conclusive?

Posted on Thu, 30 Apr 2015

Question: Hi Dr. XXXXXXX

Hope you are fine.

And after 14 days I have done HIV 1 RNA Qualitative test (sample type EDTA Plasma Blood) and HIV 2 real time PCR (sample type EDTA Plasma Blood). Both the results are negative.

After 28 days of exposure I did an HIV 1 and 2 + p.24 Ag (method CMIA) which was also negative.

And after 45 days of exposure I again did an HIV 1 and 2 + p.24 Ag (method CMIA) which was also negative.

And after 51 days of exposure I did HIV 1&2 Abs + p24 Ag. (HIV) and the result is also negative.

I have two question if you could help me with.

I could read that p24 Ag will cover for HIV 1 only and for some cases the antibodies can be detected only after 3 months. I was in Dubai and I think I should check for HIV 2 too.

1. Whether my test results are conclusive for HIV 1 and 2.
2. If not what test I can take for HIV 2.

Now my wife is with me and she wants to have baby. I am using condom every time as I am afraid. She is also from the medical industry and I cant hide it anymore. I am worried, sad and depressed. I don't get proper sleep. would you help me to overcome this.

Thank you

XXXX

Answered by Dr. Roopa Hiremath (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
No other testing required, tests done conclusive for HIV 1 and 2

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mr. XXXXXXX

Welcome back.

I understand your stress and worries regarding HIV exposure.

I can assure you that you do not have to undergo any further testing for either HIV 1 or HIV 2.

The tests you have undergone are conclusive enough.

I would like to explain few details about structure of HIV and types for you to understand the concept behind the testing strategies for HIV.

HIV is a retrovirus which has two types (HIV 1 and 2) based on the genome.

Both cause infection in man but HIV 1 is most common in the world and HIV 2 is more common in XXXXXXX countries.

But because of so much international travel happening these days, labs test for both HIV 1 and 2.

Coming to structure, HIV is a spherical, enveloped virus which has a cylindrical core, this core carries the p24 antigen which is detected by PCR in early exposure.

This antigen is present in both HIV 1 and 2.

I have explained about the window period of HIV antibodies in my previous replies.

The testing you have undergone is conclusive enough for both HIV 1 and 2.

Hence I assure you that you do not require any further testing.

I suggest you quit worrying and plan a happy future with your wife.

Please get back if any more queries.

Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta

Follow up: Dr. Roopa Hiremath (16 hours later)

Hi Dr. XXXXXXX

Thank you for your message.

One of my local doctor has suggested me that the tests I did would not cover HIV 2 and I need to go for a 3rd Gen ELISA antibody test. What I did last was HIV 1&2 Abs + p24 Ag. (HIV) - ELIFA method. Do I require any test like 3rd Gen ELISA antibody test, if so when can I take it and clear my mind.

I am sorry for writing again and again. It would be really great if you can confirm my query.

Regards,
XXXX

Answered by Dr. Roopa Hiremath (5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
3rd generation ELISA kit tests for both antibodies for both HIV 1 and 2

Detailed Answer:
Hi Mr XXXXXXX

I understand your stress regarding this matter, but the tests you have undergone are conclusive enough.

But if you want to undergo testing, a 3rd generation ELISA for both HIV 1 and 2 antibodies 3 months after exposure will be confirmatory.

Confirmation testing like western blot can also be done after 3 months of exposure.

Mind you this test is to assure you and confirm your HIV negative status.

I hope I have cleared your doubts.

Do not hesitate to get back if any more queries.

Thanks.

Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.

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