[Question #11951] hiv test negative/oral thrush

11 months ago

Hi there, I have tested negative with the 4th gen test at 42 days post exposure. But I have been having persistent slight oral thrush for over 3 weeks now even with medicated mouthwash. I know the test is supposed to be conclusive by 6 weeks but the oral thrush is concerning me that I still might have hiv? I’ve read it can be an early indicator of hiv. no one can explain why this is occurring

Edward W. Hook M.D.

11 months ago

Welcome to the Forum and thanks for your questions. I’ll be glad to comment.

You don’t mention ( nor do you need to) your exposure(s) but less than and typically far less than 1% of exposures to HIV infected, untreated partners lead to HIV infection. In addition results of 4th generation HIV tests are entirely conclusive any time more than 6 weeks after exposure. You can be entirely confident that you don’t have HIV.

I don’t know if you’ve been searching the internet or not bot statements there severely exaggerate the association of thrush with recently acquired HIV. Most people with thrush do not have HIV. Some have predisposing factors like recent antibiotics or diabetes. Others may occasionally have thrush due to fungal strains that are resistant to common OTC anti fungal medications. However in most people with thrush there is no obvious predisposition.

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Edward W. Hook M.D.

11 months ago

Sorry, pushed send too quickly.

I urge you to believe your HIV test results and work with the doctor who diagnosed you to get your thrush managed. Perhaps with a longer course of anti fungal medication. EWH

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11 months ago

Thanks for the reply, sorry about that. My exposure was unprotected vaginal sex multiple times and one time receptive anal sex with ejaculation with someone whose HIV status is unknown. Will do!

11 months ago

unprotected anal*

11 months ago

my doctor wants me to test at the 3 month mark; is this necessary? wondering if it’s an outdated concept or because she feels like my exposure was extra high risk

11 months ago

hi there sorry saying you replied but not seeing anything?

Edward W. Hook M.D.

11 months ago

I’m sorry. For some reason my reply did post. You are right on target. Your 6 week result is conclusive. There is no reason for 3 month testing.

Sorry for the confusion. EWH

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11 months ago

im assuming 42 days is sufficient enough as 6 weeks?

Edward W. Hook M.D.

11 months ago

Absolutely. There is no meaningful difference between 42 days and 6 weeks. EWH---

11 months ago

thank you for your replies!

Edward W. Hook M.D.

11 months ago

I hope the information I have provided has been helpful. We provide up to three responses to each clients questions. Therefore, this thread will be closed shortly. Take care. EWH.---