"Is an HIV test conclusive 3 months after exposure? "

Question

Hi doctor,

I have negative HIV(Human Immunodeficiency Virus), ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay) test on 54th day, 108th day, 210th day and 260th days. May be all tests are second or third generation tests. I also have done an HIV test with the help of home test kit which shows result in 10 minutes. The result is negative. My questions are what are the chances of a false negative? Whether I need anymore testing like PCR(Polymerase Chain Reaction), RNA(Ribonucleic acid)/DNA(Deoxyribonucleic acid) test? Does three months HIV test is considered conclusive? What are the chances of transmission in case of protected sex (no anal or oral sex)? Whether deep kiss or smooch can transmit the virus?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I completely understand your concerns.

I will answer your query specifically. In your case, the chances of a false negative are almost nil. The chances of a false negative are high during the window period, which extends from three weeks to six months. Usually, a person having HIV has detectable antibody levels within a month. Almost 97 percent of people become seropositive by three months. By six months, any person having HIV will develop antibodies. Only a few cases have been reported where seroconversion occurred late, after a year. As you have done your tests at monthly intervals for six months and the results have been negative, the chances of it being a false negative are almost negligible. You do not need any other tests. We consider three months as conclusive, but prefer to do a test at six months too. If you have used a condom, you need not worry. If only sex is unprotected chances of spreading through a single contact are 0-1%. Kissing does not spread infection.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert if there is any query.

Thank you.