Is HIV negative test reliable after 17 days of exposure?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been exposed to HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and took two tests on the 17th day after exposure. The first test was the 4th generation, and the second was the HIV-1 RNA (ribonucleic acid) qualitative test. Both of these tests came back negative from the first day of the exposure till today.

I experienced some HIV symptoms. These symptoms were a swollen lymph node in my neck that lasted for a week and disappeared later. I had this swollen lymph node again at the exact location two days ago, which is still there.

The second symptom is the appearance of some red pimples on my forehead and my arms. The last symptom is an upset stomach. I have mild stomach pain, which is on and off. The pain is not severe, but it is still bothering me.

So, based on these test results and my symptoms, do you think my results are conclusive?
Do I need to take another test in the future?

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query. I understand your concern.

Unprotected sexual exposure is a risk factor for multiple STDs (sexually transmitted diseases), including HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

However, the risk depends upon the exposure, whether there was any homosexual activity, mode of intercourse, use of a condom, the type of partner, and any symptoms in the partner.

The 4th-generation HIV test can be considered accurate after four weeks of the last exposure. Your symptoms are nonspecific and not due to HIV.

I suggest you check HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen) and undergo anti-HCV (hepatitis C virus) and VDRL (venereal disease research laboratory) tests.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.