Dr. Ramchandra Lamba
Psychiatry
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Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
I have done an antibody test for HIV1 and 2 after 63 days of exposure. I have done some rapid screening tests. It showed me a negative result. Then I did HIV RNA PCR quantitative test at 69 days. It also showed me a negative result. I read that PCR is very sensitive and conclusive. Is it true? Will it work for taking tests after 70 days of exposure? Should I be concerned or risk-free? I have diarrhea for few days.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
As the result was negative at 69 days, you are free from HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection and you do not need to repeat the test. PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests should not be used routinely. An antigen-antibody test can detect all cases taken after four weeks of exposure. Please mention the test done for rapid screening. Fourth-generation gives accurate results in 95 percent of cases taken after four weeks.
Patient's Query
Thank you doctor,
I am not sure about the test. Does RNA-PCR is accurate when taken at ten weeks?
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
This test is only an antibody test and it is not an antigen-antibody test. The antigen-antibody test is more sensitive. PCR-RNA (polymerase chain reaction) test is done for viral load. As your test is negative at 69 days, then there is nothing to be worried.
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Psychiatry
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