Dr. Utkarsh Sharma
Pathology
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Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Are quick testing for HIV and syphilis accurate? And should it be considered affirmative if it is performed after the incubation period? I had a sexual interaction with my fiancé, and after 120 days, I underwent a quick test for syphilis and HIV. The results were unfavorable. All the tests I did using three separate brand kits came up negative. I performed tests more than once, and the effects were adverse each time, so can I consider this the lone consequence, or should I continue to be concerned? Should I treat it as definitive? And is there a chance that someone negative on Elisa at 120 days may become positive if tested quickly using numerous tests from various brands? Have you ever seen such cases? Is it realistically possible? Kindly help.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
HIV rapid tests have reasonably good sensitivity and specificity to detect HIV 1 and 2 antibodies. The sensitivity is higher for a serum sample than a whole blood sample. The rapid tests for syphilis have a sensitivity of 95%, a specificity of 100%, and an accuracy of more than 99 percent. If you ask me 'any chance,' then the answer is yes, there is always a chance, but we are talking about practical things here. As you have tested from 3 different kits, sensitivity and specificity increase further. I do not recommend further testing if there are no suspicious symptoms or the exposure is not confirmed. In my opinion, you are free from HIV and syphilis and should consider it as the final result.
I hope I have answered your question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
Thank you for the reply.
What is the sensitivity and specificity of HIV rapid kits?
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I read your query and can understand your concern.
Modern rapid test kits have excellent sensitivity and specificity, as the FDA recommends that the sensitivity and specificity of RTs should exceed 98%. It varies with brand. Suggest to refer to the kit insert included with the kit for further details.
I hope I have answered your question.
Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards.
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Pathology
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