Expert: Kristen Brannock, MPH - 6/13/2008

Question
Hi Doc,
3 and 4 months after possible exposure to HIV I had gone for a HIV-1/2 ELISA antibody test. In both the cases the result came HIV negative. However, I have armpit fungal infection and some a little swollen nodes. Please let me know the following with respect to the above:-
1. Can I consider these tests definitive or should I go for another test post 6 months of possible exposure?
2. If suppose a person has symptoms like rash, fever, swollen nodes resulting from a HIV and 4 weeks post to these symptoms he/she takes a HIV test. He/she should definitely have enough anti-bodies to detected?
3. Is armpit fungal infection as symptom for early/acute HIV infection? And can in occur in 2 weeks post HIV exposure?

Request your reply at the earliest. I am really worried!!!

Thanks & best regards,

Answer
There is a very small number of people who may take up to 6 months to seroconvert, but the vast majority will by 3 or 4 months.

Symptoms related to HIV (weakened immune system) do not immediately happen. most take years.

Either way, if you have any kind of worrisome symptoms, see a doctor.