Is a 12-week CMIA conclusive for HIV with an enlarged node?

Question

Hello doctor,

After my risky exposure with CSW (community sex worker), day 10th HIV(human immunodeficiency virus) RNA (ribonucleic acid) PCR (polymerase chain reaction) with TaqMan method and four weeks and 12 weeks CMIA (chemiluminescent microparticle immuno assay) test at laboratory, all are non-reactive but symptoms appear after six weeks. And still a node exists that has been enlarged in front of the ear for three months, with no change and no pain.

Only one symptom, please clarify if the node related to ARS (acute retroviral syndrome). Have my tests been concluded? I have read that a one-month window period is used for ruling out HIV. Is it true? ARS symptom lymph node exists for how many days?

Please help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You have undergone a lot of tests and have all turned negative, so you cannot be labeled as HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) positive. If the lymph node is big enough, consult a general surgeon for FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) and histopathological examination will give a clear picture about what it is. So, you can be treated.

Till then, you can take tablet Signoflam three times a day after food for five days, and tablet Augmentin 625 three times a day after food for five days. It may reduce or vanish. Sometimes, it is idiopathic, so it remains dormant, but you can go for the removal of the lymph node.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.