What if HIV RNA is below, within, and above linear range?
Hello doctor,
I have done RNA PCR test. The report showed that the target was not detected in the collected serum. HIV RNA was detected below, within and above the linear range of the assay. Can we conclude that the virus has entered into the body? After one week, I got western blot test also done. That is showing negative. Please suggest what my next step should be?
26 Apr 2024 - 1 min read
What causes painful bumps on the penis after masturbation?
Hello doctor,
I got some pimple-like bumps on my penis. But, I was not able to identify the cause for it. I observed that it happens to me after masturbation most of the time. So, please suggest some remedies for this problem because they are painful. I am uploading a picture.
24 Apr 2024 - 1 min read
Are HIV DNA PCR and 4th generation tests reliable?
Hello doctor,
Would the HIV DNA PCR tests at 14 days and fourth generation test at four weeks be reliable if it is negative? Symptoms as of now are joint pains since two to three months and sometimes a headache. I am a heavy alcohol drinker and smoker too. Thank you.
24 Apr 2024 - 1 min read
Can an HIV test be accurate six years after exposure?
Hi doctor,
I would like to begin with my dropped CD4 (clusters of differentiation) count of 350, which I had six years ago. Two weeks later, it raised to 398. The doctor said it could be entirely reasonable for a woman to have a count of CD4 around 400. The reason for dropping maybe due to a previous infection and stress. I had no any infection previously, but a low-risk exposure to HIV eight months before and no further risks ever since. Last year, I had my first ever HIV test (third generation antibody), which came back negative. I also had two more the same kind of test after that with negative results. Only recently, I am experiencing recurrent colds and blocked, runny nose, vaginal infections, fungi like discoloration on two of my fingers and red dots or spots, rashes on one of my shoulders. Could these symptoms be related anyhow to HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) or AIDS (Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome)? Could my test be falsely negative due to late testing after my exposure of six plus years? Should I have another CD4 count or other tests? Thank you for your time and answer.
19 Apr 2024 - 1 min read
How to manage the side effects of Atroiza with HIV?
Hello doctor,
I am an asymptomatic HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) positive male with a CD4 count of 320. I started on Atroiza and Cotrimoxazole two days back. But yesterday I drunk and could not sleep and sat outside at night because I could not breathe properly. My problem is, I am in holiday now. My night shift job starting is starting soon. I do not think I can cope with these new side effects on this job. I really need this job, but I am afraid to stop the treatment after two days and for the duration of the holidays, as it may make the virus resistant. Please help.
16 Apr 2024 - 1 min read
