[Question #8586] Concerned about rapid test accuracy

42 months ago

After an high risk exposure, I had a negative 4th gen combo and pooled nat both at 14 days. At 12 weeks I retested with rapid Insti test- negative and an Alere Determine combo at 13 weeks negative. 2 years later I had three negative Insti test all done within the same week. Other test below

Rapid Stat Pak - negative after 2 years

RNA nat - negative after 2 years

Insti test - negative after 3 years.

I’m still concerned that these test may be missing possible infection.

H. Hunter Handsfield, MD

42 months ago

Welcome back, but I'm sorry you found it necessary -- especially after Dr. Hook's reasoned, science-based reassurance in your previous thread 22 months ago.

The answers haven't changed. Taken together, the first tests -- AgAb (4th generation) and NAAT14 days after exposure -- were over 99% conclusive. And every test after that was 100% conclusive all by itself. The title of your question implies you're mostly concerned about the accuracy y of your rapid test (Insti), but all blood tests, including Insti and other rapid tests, are equally effective in detecting HIV when done more than a few weeks after exposure. Anyway, that's not your only result -- you also have all the others. Nobody in the world ever has turned out to have HIV after such test results. Do your best to move on without further worry.

HHH, MD

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42 months ago

Thanks for the reassurance. I will do my best to put this behind me.

Thank you.

42 months ago

I have one last question. Would the RNA Nat be detectable after 2 years. I’ve read that it can be undetected even without treatment.

H. Hunter Handsfield, MD

42 months ago

Yes, NAATs can become undetectable without treatment, in those rare persons whose immune system is effective in keeping HIV suppressed -- called "elite controllers". However, I stress that his is rare, and such persons still have strongly positive antibody tests.

Don't overthink all this. There is simply no way you have HIV. Believe it and move on without worry!

That concludes this thread. It will have to be your last on this topic. Repetitive anxiety driven questions are subject to deletion without reply and without refund of the posting fee. Thanks for your understanding. I do hope the discussions will help you stop worrying!

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