[Question #13460] Follow up to [Question #13319]
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1 days ago
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Doctors
So sorry to be back so quickly after my last threat (see subject line). Given the symptoms I was telling you about, I went to the urgent care today. They tested me for mononucleosis heterophile ab (finger prick test) and came back positive. I don’t remember having mono when I was younger (I am in my early 30s) so it could very well be the first time I have it.
My question is about HIV as there has been evidence in literature that ARS has led to false positive heterophile ab tests.
1. How common are they?
2. I am seeing my PCP on Monday. What tests should I ask to confirm a mono / ebv infection?
3. Are you confident that this is not HIV and that there is no need to repeat HIV labs? My latest tests (4th gen ab/ag and rna pcr) were negative at 16 weeks post exposure and 12 weeks post PEP
Thanks
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
1 days ago
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Welcome back to the Forum. I'll provide further comments. The heterophile antibody test detects antibodies to Epstein-Barr infection, one of the causes of mono (along with CMV in heterophile negative mono) The symptoms you described were not typical for mononucleosis. and your PCR test PROVES that you did not have HIV. BELIEVE THE TESTS!!! Heterophile tests can remain positive long after infection has occurred. I remain confident that you do not have HIV and urge you to put aside your unwarranted continuing concerns of HIV. In answer to your specific questions:
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1. How common are they?
False positive heterophile antibody tests due to HIV are quite rare, as are false positive HIV tests in persons with EBV- so rare that there are not specific figures to how much less than 1% cross reactivity is unclear. PCR results would not be affected by EBV.
2. I am seeing my PCP on Monday. What tests should I ask to confirm a mono / ebv infection?
EBV testing is complex. Best to discuss this with your own doctor although, to be honest, I'm not sure why you even need to test further.
3. Are you confident that this is not HIV and that there is no need to repeat HIV labs? My latest tests (4th gen ab/ag and rna pcr) were negative at 16 weeks post exposure and 12 weeks post PEP
Yes, as I said above. I am confident you do not have HIV.
EWH