[Question #3977] HIV testing question...

85 months ago

On 4/14 had a single unprotected heterosexual vaginal exposure lasting for maybe 10 mins. No ejaculation. Around 10-14 days later noticed discomfort in groin and armpit lymph node areas, but no visable swelling.

On 5/22 woke with white tongue and sore throat. Still had discomfort in lymph nodes areas.

5/24, just under 6 weeks had full STD panel test (Trich, Syphilis, Clym, Gon, Hep B/C) and an HIV rapid test, most likely antibody only. All negative.

5/30 had dizzy spells for a few days and shortness of breath. Also more groin pain in the lymph node area.

6/5, 7.5 weeks, had RNA early detection test. Negative.

6/8, 8 weeks, had Oraquick oral home test. Negative

Between 8 weeks and now have rash on upper stomach, looks like follicticus, pain in liver and gallbladder area, pain in spleen area. Another sore throat and pain in jaw, under ear.

I took a Hep B/C, syphilis and HIV 4th gen test today and am awaiting results. I know that symptoms can’t be used to diagnose but based on tests, am I likely to receive a negative results? I should mention I have been near mental breakdown from stress after noticing the first symptoms.

85 months ago

I should add that the rapid test was a finger prick at planned parenthood. And that after 8 weeks I had 2 ulcers that quickly went away and I’ve gave loose stools throughout.

Edward W. Hook M.D.

85 months ago

Welcome to our Forum. I'll try to help. The exposure you describe was relatively low risk for all STIs and very low risk for HIV. Most heterosexual women do not have HIV and even when they do, the virus is transmitted less than once for every 1000 sexual encounters. Your testing however changes my assessment from unlikely to being able to definitively prove that you were not infected by the exposure you describe. While there is some controversy as to just whether finger stick, rapid HIV antibody tests miss a small proportion of HIV at 8 or 12 weeks after exposure, your two RNA PCR tests unequivocally prove that you were not infected. There is no reason for continuing concern and I am confident that he follow-up testing you had recently will be negative, further providing that you were not infected with any of the STIs you have been tested for.

I hope these comments will be helpful and will relieve your concerns. EWH

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85 months ago

Dr. to clarify my tests are as follows:

6 week finger prick rapid test

7.5 week RNA early detection (only one)

8 week oraquick home oral swab

Also the women stated she has never been tested. I’m in a relationship now and nervous about my status.

Edward W. Hook M.D.

85 months ago

Thanks for the clarification. The most definitive test that you have had is the RNA test which is definitive for you. The other test results support this result and are highly supportive of the result. You are in the clear. EWH
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85 months ago

Thanks Dr. I greatly appreciate the service you and your colleagues provide.

This is my last question. If the exposure was with someone who travels a lot outside the US or their prior sexual partner travels a lot, would HIV-2 be any concern? I know I’m paranoid but the RNA was only for HIV-1 and I’m not very confident in the rapid and oral tests.

Thanks again.

Edward W. Hook M.D.

85 months ago

While the PCR might miss HIV-2, the other tests would not as the test for both HIV-1 and -2. HIV-2 is extraordinarily rare, even in those places where it is sometimes seen. I have confidence in your results and urge you to do the same. Please don't worry. EWH---