HIV test negative for both partners. Other tests needed?

Question

Hello doctor,

I did protected sex with a known lady two times, (65 days before and 36 days back). She has breast milk, I swallowed a couple of drops at that time. I felt fatigue, and a couple of bumps on the back of the neck after five days of second exposure.

I got tested HIV duo combo after 28 days of the second exposure. Both the antibody and antigen are non-reactive. On 36th day, I and that lady got tested with HIV spot test it is non-reactive for both. However, I can feel burning sensation on some parts of the sole of feet, and left palm. I am concerned about this, do I need to take any other tests? Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for sharing your medical info with us.

In terms of HIV detection tests, ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test) is the first test to be done and then if positive, western blot is recommended.

You and your partner have both tested negative with rapid HIV test which guarantees the exclusion of HIV. You mentioned burning sensation on soles and palms. I am wondering if you also have lesions in these areas. The bumps you are experiencing are however, due to some other etiologies most likely molluscum contagiosum. These lesions have an umbilicated appearance they might itch and sore. They are extremely contagious but fortunately, they resolve on their own without any treatment. You might or might not have these lesions at the moment. Keep in mind these lesions could also be stress rashes, common after sexual activities.

If the lesions still exist and hurt and do not have the typical umbilicated appearance. I recommend taking a biopsy so investigate the pathology. If they do not exist at the moment, plan on taking a biopsy when they reappear. The burning sensation you feel in your palms and soles is due to a different pathology, most likely a neuropathy.

Further information needed to put the right diagnosis on these symptoms, most importantly a detailed history of when and how they started? And how long have you been experiencing this burning sensation? Do you have any medical history or family history of diabetes? Nonetheless, these symptoms are not related to HIV infection.

All I can recommend for assuring a reliable HIV test result is to repeat the test three months after exposure and see if you are still test negative. (Rarely antibody formation might take longer than usual).