HomeAnswersHIV/AIDS specialisthiv testingMy HIV combo and p24 test results came negative after I had protected sex. Are these results conclusive?

Is rapid antibody testing efficient enough to detect HIV?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At December 13, 2022
Reviewed AtAugust 14, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had protected sex with a commercial sex worker. I was worried, so I underwent an HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) combo test along with p24 antigen screening after 34 days which came out negative. However, after four days, I got flu symptoms, so I kept overthinking. So I want to ask if my test results are conclusive. I also want to know if her HIV will be detected in the rapid test.

Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for the query. The chances of transmission of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) by single-protected intercourse is almost nil if a condom is used appropriately. The chances of HIV tests coming positive later are almost nil with the given description and test results (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). But it would be better to go for an HIV antibodies test after three months of exposure to relieve anxiety. The symptoms are non-specific and need not be due to HIV. It can be due to any respiratory infection. Her negative rapid test results further increase the chances of your HIV tests coming negative.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

On what day are the HIV combo p24 antigen and antibodies test results considered conclusive?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Usually, the combo test is considered conclusive after one month of exposure. This is because the chances of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) tests coming positive later are almost nil. But it would be better to go for an HIV antibodies test after three months of exposure to relieve anxiety.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra
Dr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra

Dermatology

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