[Question #1503] Syphilis testing

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93 months ago
I recently found out a partner of mine was HIV pos but undetectable so I had testing done at 5 weeks  post exposure and also got tested for all other std's at the same time.  Everything came back negative. I repeated the testing for HIV at 3 months and negative with 4 gen.  I then had HSV  2 and syphilis test done  at 100 days post exposure and test came back negative.   I found out yesterday that he was tested positive two weeks ago for syphilis.    I have not seen him for over three months.   So my question is the test I had at 100 days post exposure is conclusive?  Just want to make sure since it is known that he has syphilis do I need to worry if it's a false negative result?    I don't believe I have any syphilis symptoms but I am not sure how long he had it.  I do know he was tested 6 months ago and he was negative at that point. 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
93 months ago

Welcome to the Forum.  I'll be pleased to comment.  Clearly, at 100 days you did not get HIV from this partner and there is no need for further HIV testing. 

With respect to syphilis, it my understanding that you are now 100 days out from your last contact with him, tested negative for syphilis 3 months after your last exposure but that he was tested for syphilis six months ago and was negative at that time and just found out he had syphilis two weeks ago.  If my time line is correct, you can be confident that you did not get syphilis from him either and that he acquired his syphilis in the interval since your last contact. There would be no need for additional syphilis testing in this time frame either.

I hope this helps.  If there are questions or I was unclear, please let me know.  EWH 

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93 months ago
Thanks I just needed to make sure reading information on the internet can be difficult and stressful when you can not find answers. Your service is great and I really appreciate your knowledge in this area.  

Thanks again 
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Edward W. Hook M.D.
93 months ago
Thanks for your thanks.  I'm pleased that my comments have been helpful. EWH
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