Hi doctor. I had oral sex about a month ago. I had a PCR HIV test done about 8 days after that. The result was HIV negative. I had another test Done about 5 days ago. The result was also Negative. Do I need to do another test or does these 2 Tests confirm that I am HIV negative?
Thank you for query.PCR (RNA-PCR)can be positive as early as post 3 days exposure .but as there will be variations sometimes with duration if the tests have come negative after 10 days of exposure we can consider it as negative.It is highly specific test (99%) for HIV.I do not recommend retest if it has come negative after 10 days.It is the fear or anxiety of patient that makes doctor to repeat the test.You can get back to me for any clarifications.to Dr Bharatesh Devendra Basti Dermatologist and Venereologist.
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Is A PCR HIV Test Reliable?
Thank you for query.PCR (RNA-PCR)can be positive as early as post 3 days exposure .but as there will be variations sometimes with duration if the tests have come negative after 10 days of exposure we can consider it as negative.It is highly specific test (99%) for HIV.I do not recommend retest if it has come negative after 10 days.It is the fear or anxiety of patient that makes doctor to repeat the test.You can get back to me for any clarifications.to Dr Bharatesh Devendra Basti Dermatologist and Venereologist.