HIV Testing

[mv123789]

At the beginning of December 2008, I had unprotected receptive anal sex with a guy I had just met. He indicated he had recently testest negative. I had a three month post-exposure antibody test at the beginning of March of this year followed by a four month Home Access test then a five month test at my physician's office. All were negative. I went for a six month test in June but the couselor at my health department refused stating that the previous tests were sufficient to prove that I had not contracted HIV given the time between the possible exposure and my final test. I want to move on from this, but I would like your expert opinion on whether I should seek another test given the extremely high risk of my actions. Thank you.  

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

I agree with your counselor.  With modern HIV antibody tests, it never takes more than 3 months for positive results and most newly infected people have positive tests within 4-6 weeks.  You do not need further testing, unless for peace of mind -- if you remain nervouse despite your own counselor's advice and mine.

Regards--  HHH, MD

[halfoldman]

Dear Mv ur testing is excessive, three months is more than sufficient, also the 6 months is primarily for those on pep since they take long to develop antibodies also it is for those who may have been injected with fresh blood occupationally. Time to move on.