Are serum card tests for HIV conclusive?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had protected sex, and the serum card test of HIV tested negative. Is it conclusive? I was diagnosed with hydrocele and a fever, and the doctor prescribed me antibiotics. He also advised me about CBC(Complete Blood Count). CBC result shows high TLC. Is it due to an infection of the hydrocele? Do the antibiotics have any effect on TLC (Total Lung Capacity)? In fear I took the ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay) test, and it was negative. No fever or other symptoms. Awaiting urine culture; urine routine is normal.

Kindly advice.

Answer 1

Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. The answers to your questions are: Suppose it was protected sex, and the condom was used consistently and correctly. In that case, the risk of acquiring HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and other STIs (sexually transmitted infections) is nonexistent. Unprotected oral exposure carries a negligible to low risk of acquisition of HIV, especially in the circumstances if there is a bleeding ulcer, gums, or active local infection. Subsequent negative test results will be considered conclusive only if there is no unprotected further exposure in the last three months. High TLC could be due to local infection or even hydrocele. Yes, antibiotics can decrease the counts if they were raised during infection. If your repeat test is negative and there has been no exposure in the last three months, the result will be considered conclusive.

Best wishes.