Is Negative HIV RNA PCR Test After 12 Days Of Possible Exposure Conclusive?

Posted on Tue, 23 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 23 Jun 2015 Answered on

Tue, 14 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : After 12 days of unprotected vaginal sex . I have done hiv 1 RNA pcr test result target not detected. After 17 days p 24 antigen combo test results index value .27 now please how much I am safe.am I infected or not? And today which early possible HIV test again done for my HIV status

Answered by Dr. Sunil Jangid (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are completely safe at present as HIV1 RNA and P24 tests are negative.

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

Welcome to HCM.

You had done HIV1 RNA PCR test after 12 days post exposure and P24 antigen combo test after 17 days post exposure and both of them are negative so you are completely safe at present.

You had done antigen tests which are conclusive even in earlier period post exposure by 2-3 weeks. So if you want to test again than I will advice you to go for the same tests like HIV RNA PCR or P24 antigen.

Thank You

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Sunil Jangid (23 minutes later)

My unprotected intercourse occur on 2 XXXXXXX So when i do which test? Please specify some says window period of antigen test 4 weeks and rna pcr also give 100% result after 3 _4 week.am i now how much safe

Answered by Dr. Sunil Jangid (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
HIV RNA PCR and P24 Ag are 100% conclusive after 3-4 weeks post exposure.

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

HIV RNA PCR and P24 antigen tests are 100% confirmatory after 3-4 weeks after post exposure; so I will advice you to go for repeat testing at the end of one month post exposure to be completely sure about your HIV status.

Thank You

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Sunil Jangid (1 hour later)

For hiv 1 rna pcr test is empty stomach is needed or not? What precautions taken before rna pcr test

Answered by Dr. Sunil Jangid (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No HIV1 RNA PCR can be done at any time of the day, no need to fast.

Detailed Answer:
Dear XXXXXXX

There is no need to fast before undergoing HIV1 RNA PCR. It can be done at any time of the day.

No any specific precaution is needed before going to HIV1 RNA PCR.

Thank You

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad