HomeAnswersHIV/AIDS specialisthivCan an HIV RNA test detect HIV after an unprotected sex?

Can HIV RNA test after seven days of unprotected sex in a person with oral thrush, back aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue detect HIV?

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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.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At March 29, 2023
Reviewed AtDecember 1, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am having oral thrush and back aches. I also have a swollen lymph node and feel fatigued. I took an HIV(Human Immunodeficiency Virus) RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) test after seven days of unprotected sex. Is that too soon?

Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query. The chances of transmission of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) by single unprotected intercourse are low. The symptoms are non-specific and need not be due to HIV. It may be due to poor hygiene and any other infection due to contact with any person. Maintain oral hygiene with rinses. Take symptomatic treatment. You can consult your doctor for further examination and management if it does not subside. HIV RNA (ribonucleic acid) PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test can detect as early as four to five days of exposure but is considered more sensitive after 12 to 14 days of exposure. Let us wait for the results. I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Secondly, should I retest if my results are negative?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

If negative, please go for the HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) antibodies test which will tell baseline results and status in case of any previous risk of exposure. And repeat the HIV antibodies test after 90 days of last exposure to be relieved of anxiety totally and for final conclusive results.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I will do that. When can I take the 4th generation test? It has been eight days for me so far.

Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com.

You can take it now or after one month of exposure, and again after 90 days of exposure. I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.

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

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra
Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra

Dermatology

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