Can immunostimulants (bacterian lysate) cause a false positive?

[MichaelP123]

Hello Doctor,

I had a risky exposure (condom breakage with CSW) about 2 weeks ago.

I want to take a duo test at 28 days, but I have a question.

Right now I'm taking a product called Broncho Vaxom which is an extract of different bacterial species, as a preventative measure for getting sick in cold weather.

I believe what this does is stimulate my immune system so that it can prepare against many respiratory infections.

Can this in any way cause a false positive in a ECLIA hiv duo test?

Thanks

[Edward W Hook, MD]

No, alcohol ingestion will have no effect on your tests.  EWH

[MichaelP123]

Hello Doctor,

I went to the clinic today to take my duo test and I'm now awaiting my results.

I just have a question:

Yesterday night I got a little drunk (drank 6 beers).

Can this interfere in any way with the test? I read that it doesn't affect the detection of the antibodies. Can it affect the detection of the p24 antigen?

Thank you!

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome back to the Forum. As you might imagine, there are no studies on the potential effect of this product on the risk for false positive HIV tests.  There are data however to suggest that common vaccines, which are also designed to boost immunity,  do not significantly increase the risk of false positive tests.  I would not worry that taking this product will increase your likelihood of a false positive test.  EWH