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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is A Retest After 3 Months Considered Conclusive?

I had an antibody test for hiv at 6 weeks past the exposure, it was neg. I had a rapid test the next day and it was neg. I am convinced I have the systems, and my skin seems super sensitive. My doc says I should be ok but wants me to retest at 3 months. I am very scared, Is this considered conclusive?
Mon, 30 Jun 2014
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Infectious Diseases Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

Welcome to HCM.

Retesting is done at the end of 3 months as this rules out the window period during which some HIV positive individuals may test negative for antibodies. This is the period taken by the body to develop antibodies against HIV. This varies in different individuals and may range from 3 weeks to 3 months. If you test negative for HIV antibodies after the window period, then you are definitely HIV negative.
Thanks.
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Is A Retest After 3 Months Considered Conclusive?

Hi, Welcome to HCM. Retesting is done at the end of 3 months as this rules out the window period during which some HIV positive individuals may test negative for antibodies. This is the period taken by the body to develop antibodies against HIV. This varies in different individuals and may range from 3 weeks to 3 months. If you test negative for HIV antibodies after the window period, then you are definitely HIV negative. Thanks.