Do swollen lymph nodes after a handjob indicate HIV?

Question

Hi doctor,

I touched the genitals of a massage therapist. There was no penetration or sex of any kind. I only touched her vagina, and she gave me a hand job. I have been getting some swollen lymph nodes on the back of my head and armpits.

I also get a tingling and burning sensation in my legs and arms. I tested negative for HIV on day 42 from the contact. Can this be HIV?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

From the available description, it appears that there was no mixing of body fluids. Touching of private parts does not cause mixing of body fluids in an otherwise healthy person. Without mixing body fluids, it is almost impossible to transmit HIV infection from one person to another.

I would also like to inform you that prodromal symptoms after HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection, like fever, lymph node enlargement, and malaise, often occur around two weeks of infection, and such symptoms appearing after one month are very unusual. It is also essential to add that currently available tests can detect HIV within 30 days. Non-reactive tests after 42 days of exposure rule out the possibility of HIV infection to a large extent.

I hope this helps you.

Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.

Thanks and regards.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Thanks for the follow-up.

First of all, accept my apologies for the delay, as the COVID situation is leaving no time to answer mail and calls. In regard to the test, you can post me the report so I can check what generation tests they offered for you. Generally speaking, most of the laboratories across the world have been using fourth-generation tests only over the last decade.

In regard to your question about transmission of HIV, the possibility is next to nil. This is because HIV does not get transmitted by touching, hugging, or dry kissing, among others. There is a need for mixing of body fluids, and touching someone (including private parts) does not cause mixing of body fluids.

I also like to inform you that the viral load required for transmission of HIV is generally high, and for transmission to take place, many viruses should be there, which cannot be there in general touching. Testing is the ultimate answer to your worries, but the available details almost rule out the possibility of HIV transmission.

I hope this answers you.

Feel free to write back to me if you have more questions.

Thanks and regards.