HIV Seronconversion and Test Results

[heynow74]

Hi,

I am 37 and on July 13th, 2011 I tested negative for HIV via a rapid test.

My last exposure was in late November or early December (definately before Christmas). It was with a sex worker and I have seen sex workers for 7-8 years.

I have not been to a doctor since I was 16.

My concern is that in mid May I had flu like symptoms and since then have have joint and muscle pain, headaches (lately wake up every morning with severe pain in the back of my head, fatigue, weakness in limbs, and have noticed that lately my arms and feet tend to fall asleep more easily). Have had loose stools and sometimes watery diarrhea for a couple years at least.

I went to the ER room a couple days after taking the hiv test and they found high levels of creatinine in my blood and according to the work up, I have stage 2 of chronic kidney disease.

If I have an autoimmune disease or disorder (haven't been to a doctor since I was 16 so I don't know if I have one or not) could it delay seronconversion and the hiv test I took last week?

I am scared and concerned that my test could be a false negative.

[Teak]

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[heynow74]

Teak, I am not trying to offend anyone, I am just concerned.

Specifically concerned about seroconversion and what may delay it. Yes, it has been since late November, early December since my last exposure so we are talking about 6 to 7 months and my rapid test last week was negative.

However, as I have stated, in mid May I have felt flu like symptoms and currently feel muscle and joint pain, two rashes on forearm and wrist, headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, and on my right bicep there are two yellow and purple bruises. Having said that, I have not been to a doctor in 21 years. I did go yesterday and he ordered a HIV/Aids test along with other blood work.

I know its rare for late seroconversion but rare means it does happen so I am concerned.

My question is simply what can cause delayed seroconversion?

Thank you.

[Teak]

* Anyone who continues to post excessively, questioning a conclusively negative result or no-risk situation, will be subject to action by MedHelp. Conclusively negative results or a no-risk situation will be based upon the criteria established by MedHelp’s doctors. Action will be taken as follows:
    * After excessive posting, a warning will be issued by MedHelp
    * Continuing to post regarding the negative result / no risk situation will result in a 3 day suspension
    * Continuing to post upon your return will result in a permanent ban.

[heynow74]

can malnutrition lead to a suppresed immune system? What cause a suppresed immune system?

[heynow74]

Thank you and I responded.

Please respond back.

[justnotsure123]

check your inbox.

[Teak]

Not that will affect an HIV test. You are HIV negative.

[heynow74]

ok but does lack of nutrition lead to a weakened immune system? lost like 25 pounds as well. I started eating better later on and could this have resulted in a better immune system and creation of hiv anitbodies leading to my flu symptoms and the symptoms I am experiencing now.

sorry teak, but I am really concerned. I guess I just find the weakened immune system question in relation to hiv testing to be a confusing one but also poorly responded to due to lack of evidence?

[Teak]

You don't have an HIV concern you have a conclusive test result.

[heynow74]

thanks, but my concern is that I wasnt eating that well after the new year like maybe 1 meal a day. The fact that I had flu like symptoms, in May and still have joint and muscle pain, persistent headaches especially in the back lower head, noticed two rash spots on both arms, and yesterday a blue yellowish bruise on bicep. Other symptoms 3 red dots in upper mouth and pain bewteen shoulder and elbow, back pain etc.

My concern is whether I should test 3 months after May, meaning the end of August.

[justnotsure123]

It DEFINATLY would not delay it that long, even if you had one. If you had an autoimmune disorder.. you would have known. Your test is conclusive.

[heynow74]

Thank you for the promt response. I do have to ask though in regards to the autoimmune disease. Could it delay seronconversion and the test result? The rapid test from what I understand checks for antibodies.  If I have an autoimmune diease, could it delay the presence of HIV antibodies in my system?

[Teak]

You don't have an HIV concern.