HomeAnswersHIV/AIDS specialisthiv testingMy HIV test was negative and I have no symptoms. How to proceed?

When should a HIV RNA test be repeated for accuracy?

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Published At March 7, 2024
Reviewed AtMarch 7, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I engaged in sexual activity with a sex worker, and during the encounter, the condom tore towards the end. I am now experiencing heightened anxiety, along with numbness throughout my body and body aches. On day nine post-exposure, I took an HIV RNA test, and the result came back negative. Currently, on day 17, I have not experienced fever, cough, or any noticeable symptoms. What steps should I take at this point, and what are the chances of HIV infection? When would be an appropriate time to repeat the test? Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The risk of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) transmission in this scenario is considered low. While your initial HIV RNA test at 7 days returned negative, it might have been too early for an accurate result. The optimal time to detect infection with HIV RNA is after 11 days post-exposure. I would suggest you undergo a 4th generation HIV rapid test at 3 to 4 weeks after the last exposure. If this result is negative, a confirmatory HIV antibody test is recommended at three months post-exposure. Given that you are already approaching the third week post-exposure, I suggest you schedule a 4th generation HIV rapid test within the next week. Also, note that HIV does not typically present with specific symptoms or signs.

Thank you.

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

Dr. Ravinder K. Sachdeva
Dr. Ravinder K. Sachdeva

HIV/AIDS specialist

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