Can HIV tests show false negatives after post-exposure PEP?

Question

Hello doctor,

After 45 days of exposure, I took PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) because of anxiety. I got hemorrhoids after the test. After finishing PEP, I tested negative for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). Two weeks after PEP, I developed rashes and mouth thrush (mild) and a whitish tongue. There are no other symptoms.

My problem is that I had sex with my wife before I started PEP. Now she has hives all over her body, a cold sore on her lips, and she has a dry cough also. For me, now it is 135 days, 19 weeks after exposure. I believe I gave her HIV.

What are the chances that the negative HIV results after PEP were false negatives, and I might have HIV?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

Without a test, it seems negative. PEP is highly reactive. All the symptoms may be due to that also. She does not have HIV. My advice:

Consult your specialist doctor, talk to them, and take the medications after their consent.
Take a tablet of Montek LC (Levocetirizine and Montelukast) one at night after dinner till required. It is safe.
Apply Acyclovir ointment locally on cold sores.
Apply Surfaz-SN (Beclometasone, Neomycin, and Clotrimazole) locally. Wet her palm, take a little ointment, and apply locally below the neck.
Ascoril LS (Ambroxol, Levosalbutamol, and Guaifenesin) 5 ml twice, 10 ml at night for dry cough.
Take a light diet, no cold things, and homemade food only.
Go for a re-test to confirm HIV.

I hope this answers your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.