[Question #8093] Follow up question

Avatar photo
48 months ago
I would like to thank you for your great effort and help .. 
I have follow up question 
I had exposure about 10 weeks ,  I started  pep 36 hours post exposure.
After pep I was advised by Dr.hood to do hiv ag/ ab after 6 weeks for peace of mind .
I did the test hiv ag/ab  test 2 -4 and 6 weeks post pep last dose : all result negative .
Can I consider 6 weeks result conclusive and close this file .
Simply what I understand that pep like any medication effect ends and once pep finished it is counting like any exposure and almost all experts considering 6 weeks hiv ag/ab post exposure result conclusive.
I wish to receive practical reply from our experts .. 
Thank you.
Avatar photo
H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
48 months ago
Welcome back. I'll be taking this question, but I reviewed your discussion last month with Dr. Hook. I agree with all he advised.

And I have to say I'm puzzled that you have returned. It seems you correctly understand both Dr. Hook's advice and the reasons for it -- and therefore that your test results are conclusive. Indeed taking PEP resets the window period for conclusive HIV testing -- with a 6 week window for AgAb tests, starting when treatment is complete. As Dr. Hook said, you had a zero risk exposure:  if you had caught HIV, you would be the first such case. There have been no scientifically proved transmissions of HIV oral to penis. Which is why PEP wasn't necessary. But assuming you plan to proceed with a conclusive test after completing PEP, have it done 6 weeks after your last dose. You definitely can expect a negative result.

I hope these comments have been helpful. Let me know if anything isn't clear.

HHH, MD
---
Avatar photo
48 months ago
I really appreciate  your reply Dr.Hunter.
So after my  negative ( non reactive ) results hiv ag/ab test result 42 days / 6 weeks I received after my last dose of pep, I can move on and close this file  from  your practical point of view .
Thanks in advance 
Avatar photo
H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
48 months ago
"So after my  negative ( non reactive ) results hiv ag/ab test result 42 days / 6 weeks I received after my last dose of pep, I can move on and close this file...."  Correct.---
Avatar photo
48 months ago
Thank you sir 
I did also VDRL for syphilis 6 weeks and 8 weeks post exposure : result both tests came negative / non reactive.
I do not have rash or sore .
Can I consider 8 weeks result conclusive  from you practical point of view? 
Thank you Dr.Hunter for your precious time and valuable knowledge .
Avatar photo
H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
48 months ago
As for HIV, there was no risk of syphilis from this event. However, although the VDRL test usually is positive with 6 weeks, iit can take up to 3 months. Because there was no risk, there is no need for an additional test. But if you feel you must have a conclusive test result, you'll need to repeat it once more at 3 months. 

That completes the two follow-up exchange included with each question and so ends this thread. I hope the discussion was helpful. Please no repeat questions about this exposure or others like it. 

Best wishes and stay safe.
---