Expert: Terry B - 1/12/2008

Question
hello terry,

my mother was recently exposed to aids-infected blood at her lab. specifically, she was tightening the cover of a test tube full of the blood when it broke. the jagged edge of the broken top half, which was covered in the infected blood, punctured the forefinger of her other hand.  the cut was pretty deep - severe enough to necessitate four stitches.  her finger bled heavily.  immediately after the incident, she flushed the wound with water. she then started the standard series of meds within about 2 hrs at  the e.r.  

the healthcare professionals involved have told us that they think it is unlikely that she will contract the disease because (a) blood flow was heavy and outward at the laceration site, (b) the meds were started so promptly, and (c) statistics are highly in her favor.  Is this sound reasoning in your assessment?

the entire family is very distraught over this and we would deeply appreciate any insight you could offer as to her chances of contracting the disease.

thank you so much,
asif


Answer
Dear Asif:

Peace and best wishes for your mother.  An occupational exposure to HIV as described is of serious concern; the reasoning described by the healthcare professionals seems quite sound as well.  One factor not mentioned is that her wearing gloves also served to at least slightly reduce the amount of infected blood to which she might have been exposed by the wiping effect of passing through the latex.

Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) is what you describe with her taking medications immediately after the exposure.  It may reduce (has in some reports) chances of an exposure becoming and infection.  References to the statistics and more information can be found at:

http://www.cdc.gov/hiv/resources/factsheets/hcwprev.htm

There certainly doesn't seem to be anything missed by the healthcare team.  The statistics will show that the odds are in your mother's favor, and I will hope for good news for you and yours.  

Be aware also that should an infection occur, the resources for treatment an monitoring of HIV continue to improve, and many people with HIV live long healthy lives.

Again, beset to you, your mother, and your family.  I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayer.

Terry