Is a retest needed if HIV symptoms persist?

Question

Hi doctor,

I had swollen lymph nodes for two weeks, muscle pain, and fatigue. I got a combo test done in two months, which was negative, another combo test for HIV in three months, which came negative, and another antibody test in six months, which also came negative. Do I need to get tested again, and are the tests done in different countries reliable? Please help.

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

HIV infection lasts one to three months, during which the tests can have false negative results. According to WHO (World Health Organisation), all tests are considered conclusive at 12 weeks after the last exposure. As your results are negative even at six months, you can be assured that you have not acquired this infection. There is no need to repeat the test further. Kindly upload the latest test report to check on the method used and to determine the reliability of the lab tested.

Thank you.