[Question #12581] Follow up to 1228
6 months ago
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Hi again, I posted about two encounters in 2022 and symptoms I was concerned about I did an oraquick test and it was negative. at the time of the test I still had the swollen lymph nodes so based on other answers I read if I was experiencing symptoms d/t HIV the test would have been positive? I ordered an insti rapid antibody test that hasn’t come in yet and plan to take that too… can I expect a negative result on that too? I honestly never worried about hiv before this and have been tested 3 times in the past just as routine and was negative. It’s these symptoms that are freaking me out.
Thanks
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
6 months ago
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Welcome back, but honestly I don't see why you found it necessary. I reviewed your recent discussion with Dr. Hook and agree with all he said.
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You are exactly right in your interpretation of other discussions you have found on the forum: it is true that " if [you were] experiencing symptoms d/t HIV the test would have been positive." Your latest antibody test is proof, in addition to your previous test results, that you do not have HIV. Any further tests you have will also be negative. You do not need these or any more tests. As for your symptoms, self assessment of abnormal lymph nodes is notoriously unreliable; my guess is that nothing is wrong. Even if you have lymph node abnormalities, there are so many more common causes than HIV! If your symptoms continue "freaking [you] out", see a doctor about them. But in the meantime, you can be certain HIV is not the cause.
I hope these comments are helpful. Let me know if anything isn't clear.
HHH, MD
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6 months ago
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Hi Dr. H, I came back because I hadn’t tested when I asked Dr.Hook is assessment. I concurred from his assessment that it was low risk , so I opted to use the oraquick. Now you’ve confirmed what you already said that - the test would have been postive if my symptoms were because of hiv. I haven’t had any other tests since these instances. I just meant in general I’ve been tested before as regular check ups. So no need for the insti?
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
6 months ago
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Sorry I didn't read your previous thread closely enough. I see no need at all for any further testing until and unless someday you have a new high risk sexual or other exposure.---
6 months ago
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Negative on the insti rapid!! Thanks so much to both you and Dr. Hook!
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
6 months ago
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I'm glad to hear of your negative test result. That was the only possibility -- but I appreciate your thanks. Best wishes and stay safe.---