[Question #11061] HIV Testing

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17 months ago
I had an encounter 54 days ago (receptive anal sex) and did not use protection. I am not on Prep. The guy I was with said he was negative and on Prep. At 16 days post potential exposure, I took a RNA test which was negative. I took two 4th Generation Tests through Quest at 42 days and 49 days post potential exposure which were also both negative. He also took an Oraquick test for me which was negative. Is this conclusive? There is so much online that I have no idea how long I have to wait. My anxiety is getting to me at this point.  
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
17 months ago
Welcome to our Forum and thank you for your questions.  Let's get to the bottom line- you were not infected at the encounter you describe.  Results of HIV RNA PCR tests are reliable any time more than 11-12 days following an encounter and results of 4th generation, combination HIV antigen/antibody tests are also fully conclusive any time more than 6 weeks (42 days) following an encounter.  There is no medical or scientific reason for additional testing.

We recommend strongly against going to the internet.  There is much mis-information there and it is difficult to determine what is correct and what is not.

Finally, FYI and future information.  Your partner said both that he was negative and on PrEP.  Most people do tell the truth in these situations.  If these statements were true, this was a no risk event.

EWH
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17 months ago
Thank you, that makes me feel so much better! Just a follow up. You have never seen or heard of a test turning positive from negative after the 45 day mark? I’ve read online (again, I know I shouldn’t) that there are rare cases this happens, which is why the CDC still recommends 90 days. Another question is when is a syphilis test conclusive?
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
17 months ago
Conclusive means just that.  The CDC is overly conservative.  Believe your results

Syphilis tests are conclusive as well at 6 weeks although, based on data from the 1940s and 50s, CDC continues to recommend 90 days.

EWH
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17 months ago
Great so final question then, if I had a RPR syphilis test at around 7 1/2 weeks that was negative, you would consider that conclusive and not see a reason for further testing (no other encounters in the meantime either). 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
17 months ago
, I would consider that result conclusive, and I see no need whatsoever for additional testing related to the encounter you described.

As you know, we provide up to three responses for each clients questions. This is my third response out. Therefore, this thread will be closed shortly. Take care. Please don’t worry. EWH.
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