Rapid HIV 1&2 Ab Blood Test

[Carlos45]

Good day to all,

As you may see from my previous posts, I had some unprotected heterosexual encounters earlier this year, the last one being a “Low Risk” unprotected receptive oral on the 27th. Of August, have been doing regular Rapid HIV 1&2 Ab Blood Tests which always came back negative;

A) 08-27-2008 to 09-22-2008 = 26 days (3 weeks, 5 days)
B) 08-27-2008 to 10-20-2008 = 54 days (7 weeks, 5 days)
C) 08-27-2008 to 11-18-2008 = 83 days (11 weeks, 6 days)
D) 08-27-2008 to 12-12-2008 = 107 days (15 weeks, 2 days)

The lab uses the rapid blood test “Determine” by the company (Inverness Medical Innovations, Inc.*/ Abbott Laboratories*) I noticed that this particular test’s brand is approved by USAID but not The FDA, link: www.usaid.gov/our_work/global_health/aids/TechAreas/scms/hiv_tests110308.xls

The lab technician explained that every Rapid Blood Test is done twice to confirm.

1) Is this (Determine) test as reliable as the FDA approved ones please?
2) Regarding accuracy/reliability of detection, how does this test compare to standard/normal blood tests?
3) Dose the type of risk (High/Low), type of test, location or race determine the length of the window period (3-6month)?

The reason I’m now doubtful is because my doctor suggested doing the 6-month test for conclusive results.

I would appreciate any thought or input.

Kind regards.

Carlos.

[Carlos45]

God bless you, thank you.

[Teak]

You don't have a concern for group N and yes they detect M and O and your test has been conclusive.

[Carlos45]

Hello Teak,

Thanks for the info., what the lab uses is Determine™ HIV-1/2, approved by USAID not The FDA, the question is; would it detect HIV1/HIV2 Groups M, N, and O too?

I have no access to Clearview, I still have the same thrush/white spot on the middle of my tongue and recurrent HSV outbreaks about once a month roughly for the past couple of months??

Regards,
Carlos.

[Carlos45]

Hello Teak,

Thanks for the info., what the lab uses is Determine™ HIV-1/2, approved by USAID not The FDA, the question is; would it detect HIV1/HIV2 Groups M, N, and O too?

I have no access to Clearview, I still have the same thrush/white spot on the middle of my tongue and recurrent HSV outbreaks about once a month roughly for the past couple of months??

Regards,
Carlos.

[Teak]

Clearview is FDA approved.

[Carlos45]

Hello again Teak and all, I hope all is well.

Quick question; would the blood test “Determine” by the company (Inverness Medical Innovations, Inc.*/ Abbott Laboratories*) detect HIV1/HIV2 Groups M, N, and O?

BTW, I did a past-6 month HIV Ab 1&2 test with the above mentioned, results: (-) Negative.

Regards,
Garlos.

[Carlos45]

Yes Sir, thank you again.
Maybe I need to seek help, I will.
Kind regards,
Carlos.

[Teak]

You have a conclusive negative test result past the window period. If you can't accept your negative test seek professional mental help as to why.

[Carlos45]

Hi and thanks Teak,

I want to wish you a happy new year and the best of luck for 2009.

Sorry for my repeated posts and concerns, they are refreshed every time I learn something new about HIV, especially from readings by good professionals on this –highly regarded- site.

For example;

1) My encounters were all with Black Caribbean women?
2) I did have previous, multiple, unprotected Veginal intercourses with the same person?
3) The type of rapid test used and their reliability?
4) The fact that my doctor is suggesting doing the 6-month test?
5) The facts that I still have the same amount of thrush on the middle of my tongue and a seemingly persistent genital yeast infection?

Please forgive my ignorance/knowledge; I don’t know whom else to turn to.
Based on these facts am I at a higher risk and should I worry about the 6-month window period or do you still think that I’m OK?

HAPPY NEW YEAR, GOD BLESS YOU.

Regards,
Carlos.

[Teak]

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/708096?personal_page_id=280889&post_id=post_3752171