When to repeat the HIV-RNA test for HIV detection?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 35-year-old male. I was engaged in a sexual activity with a sexual worker, and during that time, my condom got torn. I am facing severe anxiety along with body aches, fever, and numbness throughout the body. On the ninth day of exposure, I took an HIV-RNA test, and it gave me a negative result. Now, I am on day 19. I do not face any symptoms like the ones that I previously encountered. What steps can be taken at this time, and what are the chances of acquiring HIV infection? What is the advisable time to undergo the test again?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

It is normal to feel anxious after a potential exposure to HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). Still, it is good that you have already taken an HIV-RNA (ribonucleic acid) test and received a negative result. The HIV RNA test is highly sensitive and can detect the virus as early as 9 to 14 days after exposure. So, a negative result on day nine significantly reduces the likelihood of an HIV infection.

The symptoms you experience, such as fever, body aches, and numbness, could be related to various other conditions, including anxiety or other viral infections. But, these are also common symptoms of acute HIV infection.

Since you are on day 19, your chances of acquiring HIV from a single exposure to condom failure are still relatively low, especially since you have had a negative RNA test.

It is suggested to follow up with another HIV test. The best time to do the test would be around three months post-exposure, as this is when most people will develop detectable levels of HIV antibodies or RNA, ensuring an accurate result.

In the meantime, continue to monitor your health, stay calm, and follow any guidance from your doctor. If you are still anxious, you can ask about the possibility of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), a medication that may help reduce the risk of HIV if started within 72 hours of exposure.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.