Do I have HIV if my test result was a false negative?
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My ex-partner had HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) three years ago when I was along with him. But, he informed me regarding this very recently. He did not make me aware of his condition. We were not careful always. After getting to know, I checked on internet about its signs and symptoms and found that I had all of them three years ago itself. I got a rapid blood test done and it came negative. Got a HIV test done and that result too came negative. I am convinced that my HIV status has progressed. I read about false positive tests and false negative tests. As my HIV tests fall under false negative I am aware that the doctor will not help me. I am much worried and in need of some guidance. Thank you in advance.
Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com.
Out of nearly hundred person having sex with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) positive person, hardly less than one may get infected. The chances of acquiring HIV after sexual exposure is less than one percent. I would suggest you to get HIV RT- PCR (reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction) and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) for HIV- 1 and HIV- 2 antibody from two different laboratory. As far as progression of the disease is concerned, HIV-RNA would be positive. False positive or negative do not occur every time. Be positive.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hi doctor,
Thank you for your advice, It seems that I am in latent stage. Though I am eating well, I have lost weight. There are purple blotches on my skin and have lymph nodes in my groin. Off late, I am having hot and cold sweats. All my previous partners are showing the same early signs of HIV that I had three years ago. Please help.
Hello, Welcome back to icliniq.com.
There are many medical conditions that can look alike as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency virus). Diagnosis can be confirmed only by HIV RT-PCR (Real time polymerase chain reaction) test. This test detects the RNA (Ribonucleic acid) of HIV virus. Hence, if this turn out to be positive, then it confirms that you are having HIV. As your tests are negative, there are very less chances of you having. In your case if you really had HIV, by now it should have progressed to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) without any treatment. All your symptoms are pointing towards acute HIV syndrome that generally do not remain for long.
Thank you.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
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