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QUESTION: Hi Doctor!

I had a "risky exposure" 36 days ago.

I was tested both antigen
p24 and antibodies (4º GENERATION ELISA) 12 days after the exposure, and the results were negative.

Then, I was tested again both antigen p24 and antibodies, 20 (almost 3 weeks) days after the exposure, and the results were negative.

Finally, I was tested again both antigen p24 and antibodies HIV (4º generation Elisa) 34 days (almost 5 weeks) after the exposure, and the results were NEGATIVE again.

1. My question is... how much accuracy do these tests I have already made have?
2. Do I need further testing?
3. Do you recomend me a test in 8 weeks or 3 months?
4. I have seen in the forum that a 4th generation test after 28 days is almost conclusive, so my last test would be conclusive?


Please, I would be very grateful if you could answer me, this anxiety is very bad.

Thank you very much, best wishes Doctor.

ANSWER: Enough accuracy that you do not need to test again and can conclude that you are negative- something the testing counselors should have gone over with you.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your answer.

But I have to ask you... Why?

Because, some people say 4 weeks, other 6 weeks ,3 months, and I don't know what to do or what to believe!

I would be very grateful if you could just let me know why.

Thank you very much.

Answer
The best answer I can give you is that the science changes and so does the interpretation. 10 years ago the window period was 3-6 months but scientists realized that that was too long a period and it was more like 1-3 months. I always recommend people to get tested around 3 months post exposure just to be SURE. In all likelihood, their earlier tests were right, but to ease their mind, I suggest a follow up.

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Kristen Brannock, MPH

Expertise

I can answer questions concerning HIV infection and AIDS. This includes ways it can and cannot be transmitted, how it is treated, how it affects the body and methods to protect yourself. I can also answer questions concerning safer sex and contraception.

Experience

I trained with the Red Cross to become an HIV/AIDS counselor and was a member of CARES- Carolina AIDS Resource Education Service in college. I have an MPH in Health Behavior and Health Education and conduct research in the field of HIV prevention. I also take continuing education courses in HIV/STI prevention periodically.

Education/Credentials
Master of Public Health Health Behavior and Health Education UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health (formerly UNC-CH School of Public Health)

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