[Question #11568] Follow up to Question #11261

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13 months ago
Hello Drs. HHH & EWH,
Thank you again for all the time you put into answering questions here.  This is an invaluable resource.

To follow up from the above-referenced question, I followed my PEP regimen and completed it on May 27.  

On June 8 (15th day post PEP and ~6 weeks post potential exposure), I had an RNA PCR Quant test.  Result: not detected (0.0 copies/mL).

On June 19 (23rd day post PEP), I had a 4th Gen Ag/Ab test.  Result: non-reactive. 

I believe these results are likely conclusive or near conclusive.  However, I’m mindful of your advice that six weeks after finishing PEP is really the gold standard.  To that end end, I do have an additional 4th Gen test scheduled on July 8.  

But here’s the rub: in anticipation of an encounter (which never actually happened) I took two doses of FTC/TDF (i.e., as PrEP “on demand”) yesterday July 2 and again today, July 3.  Again, no encounter either day, but I wanted to be prepared.  I do not want a repeat of the experience described in my prior question!!

My question: would those doses of FTC/TDF meaningfully affect my upcoming July 8 test? 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
13 months ago
Welcome back to the Forum. Thanks for your questions.  On this occasion I happened to pick up your new question.  In preparing to respond I reviewed your earlier interaction with Dr. Handsfield and agree with all that he said.  

I agree with that, had you been infected it is more likely than not that the tests you've had would have almost certainly been positive and that you have almost certainly not acquired HIV from the encounter you describe.  I also applaud your decision to pursue PrEP, whether "on-demand" or continuously.   I would have no concerns that the two doses of TC/TDF would in any way compromise the accuracy of your final PEP followup, which I am confident will be negative.

I hope this helps.  EWH
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13 months ago
Excellent! Thank you for the reply :) 
I have no follow ups, so this can conclude the thread.  Enjoy Indepedence Day festivities!! 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
13 months ago
Thank you. The thread will remain open in case there are other questions or for 30 days, whichever comes first.  EWH---