Are negative HIV tests after 28 days of sex conclusive?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) 1 and 2 antibody tests to detect antigens p24 and glycoprotein (Gp41 and Gp120) of HIV immunochromatography after 28 days of unprotected vaginal sex, and the results are nonreactive. Does it mean I am safe from the virus? I am now two months past, and I have no symptoms.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello, Welcome to icliniq.com.

This HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) screening test involves antibodies and antigens accurately. It detects the majority of those infected at four weeks, whereas its sensitivity increases between 99 and 99.9 % at six weeks. So most HIV specialists consider the results of this test conclusive at six weeks.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. It is accurate, but at four weeks, it would accurately detect 95 out of 100 HIV patients blood tested (95 % sensitivity) and miss out on 5 HIV patients (false negative result ). However, at six weeks, it would accurately detect almost all HIV patients tested (99.9 % sensitivity). So I suggest you repeat this test for a conclusive result. Since it has been two months, you have had a risk exposure.

I hope this helps.