Just followng up from my thread from Dr Hook the other day regarding a potential HIV risk.... #4073

Well I've had the results back from the NHS here in England, I had a blood test ( blood taken from the arm) and it was 6 weeks since my potential exposure. Am I safe to move on with my life and stop worrying about the HIV risk? What are the chances now that a 6 week negative will turn postive further down the line and do i need any further testing to be sure?

Welcome back to the Forum although I'm sorry you felt the need.  I think your questions were largely answered in our earlier exchange.  Your test results at 6 weeks are definitive, presuming that you were tested with a combination HIV antigen/antibody test (which are the standard tests offered in most laboratories and settings).  While manufacturers "official" instructions may suggest that results are not conclusive until a period of 12 weeks since your exposure occurred, these recommendations are overly conservative and reflect the approval process more than anything else.  The scientific data however, indicate that currently available combination HIV antigen/antibody tests are conclusive at any time more than 6 weeks after exposure.  My strong advice, given with great confidence, is that if your 6 weeks test is negative, then there is no reason for continuing concern or for further testing. 

I hope this response will allow you to move forward without concern.  EWH

I can't seem to switch the 12 week window from out of my head but most importantly i want to know if i can continue to have sexual intercourse with my regular partner without the fear of infecting them?

Am I right in thinking there has been no documented case of someone testing negative at 6 weeks, going on to test postive at 12 weeks?

Yes, you are correct, we have never seen anyone with a negative combination HIV antigen/antibody test who took more than 6 weeks for their test to be positive.  In fact, speaking for Dr. Handsfield and myself, we have never seen a patient who failed to have a positive test by 4 weeks.

You do not say whether you are doing it or not but if you are looking for information on the internet, I urge you to stop and stay off.  So much of the information there is out of date, misinterpreted or just plain wrong- it is not helpful to our clients.  EWH

Also you said that there was no need to re-test for syphallis after a 5 week negative test and no signs of any sores. Well a tiny spot has just appeared on the bottom of my tounge now at the 6 week mark, it's honestly tiny but i just wanted to check before the thread closes.

Apologies i have very bad anxiety! 

Six weeks is far beyond  when a new syphilis lesion would have appeared.  You are in the clear.  Really! 

As you know, this final answer will complete this thread which will be closed shortly.  Take care. Please don't worry.  EWH