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Can HIV antibody tests help establish HIV status?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At February 13, 2024
Reviewed AtFebruary 13, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have some symptoms like swollen lymph nodes and rapid heartbeat. This started four years ago when I rubbed my naked penis on a bed that had black fluid and hair on it. I do not know if the fluid was semen or blood, or if it could transmit HIV (human immunodeficiency viruses). How long can HIV survive outside the body? Another time, I went to the hospital for a blood checkup and they used a hollow needle to draw blood. I could not tell if it was new or old, but my father said it was new. These two things make me very anxious. I also have gastric problems, back pain, vitamin B12 deficiency, and skin itching. Could these be caused by anxiety? Do I need to get tested for HIV or am I fine? I am 5.5 feet tall and weigh 111 pounds. Please help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. The chances of transmission of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) by the act you described on the bed are nil. Healthcare professionals are trained to follow universal precautions. They will not reuse needles. So the chances of transmission of HIV by this are also nil. HIV does not survive in the environment beyond a few minutes. The symptoms are non-specific and may not be due to HIV. Please consult your physician for examination and management of your symptoms. I do not see a need for HIV tests. If you are too anxious, please go for an HIV antibody test now and relieve yourself of anxiety completely.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

I am very stressed about my symptoms. You say HIV does not transfer in this way, but I have symptoms like swollen lymph nodes. Why do I have these symptoms? Is it because of severe stress and anxiety? Do I need any HIV test for this? Is it possible to get HIV from fluids outside the body, doctor? Please advise me.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You should get an ultrasound of your lymph nodes. If they are enlarged, you should get a fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) for the diagnosis. You do not need an HIV test. If you want to take one for your mental peace, you can do so. HIV virus cannot survive outside the body. It will die in the environment. So it is not possible to get HIV from fluids outside the body.

I hope your queries are resolved and any further queries are welcome. Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar
Dr. Kaushal Bhavsar

Pulmonology (Asthma Doctors)

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