Are swollen lymph nodes a sign of HIV infection?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had unprotected exposure 7 months ago with a commercial sex worker, and I do not know her HIV status. Since then, I have had multiple fourth-generation tests and a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). My fourth-generation HIV test has been negative till now. But I have had a swollen lymph node in my neck for 4 months, a sore throat for 4 months, dull abdominal pain, and now a burning sensation on my tongue. I have taken many medicines. I have run all STD (sexually transmitted virus) tests for 6 months, and all have been negative. I have normal CBC (complete blood count), LFT (liver function test), KFT (kidney function test), normal ultrasound abdomen, and negative hepatitis B and C. Please guide me. Is it possible I am infected with HIV or any other STD (sexually transmitted diseases)?

Kindly guide.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Your tests for sexually transmitted diseases (including HIV) are conclusive. A 4th-generation HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) screening test is considered conclusive at six weeks from risk exposure. Most other STDs would also be detectable by laboratory tests within six months. So, if all these tests are negative at 6 months, it means you do not have them. There must be some other explanation for your symptoms. Is there a history of weight loss? I suggest you also screen for tuberculosis, such as chest X-ray, Mantoux test, etc.

Regards.