Trust test or retest

Had a PCR DNA test and an antibody test 20 days after exposure both were negative .  Had second PCR DNA and an antibody test 63 days after same exposure both came back negative. Should I have more HIV test or can I be sure that I don't have HIV?  

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Welcome to the forum.

Two negative PCR tests 3 and 9 weeks after the last possible exposure to HIV is very strong evidence a person wasn't infected.  However, the standard advice is for an HIV antibody test, not PCR alone.  You should also have an HIV antibody test.  Almost certainly it will be negative.

Regards--  HHH, MD

[jwwood]

Had the HIV antibody test along with PCR both times. Bothe of them were also neg.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Then for sure you don't have HIV.  Most likely you didn't need the PCR test, unless you had an especially high risk exposure.

[jwwood]

Thank you so much for help. Just to make sure I understand,, negative pcr along with negative antibody test at 63 days . I am ok and don't have HIV

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Antibody alone would prove it.  Move on and forget HIV. All is well.

[jwwood]

I just have not been able to shake this. Let me tell you the whole story. On Oct. 19 had unprotected sex with a female escort. On Nov. 8th had PCR DNA and Antibody test (20 days later) Negitive result. On Dec. 21 had the test repeated PCR DNA and antibody ( 63 days later) Negitive. I know I have a lot of guilt and anxity, but just having very hard time believing that I am ok. Sorry to bother you again but I just need more help in moving ON.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

This makes no difference in my opinion or advice.  Test results always outweigh exposure history, symptoms, etc, and your results prove 100% you didn't catch HIV.

When someone is emotionally distraught as you apparently are, facts and reassurance alone often don't end the anxiety.  Unfortunately, however, that's all we can do on this forum.  If you find yourself continuing to obsess about the chance you might have caught HIV, professional counseling is the way to go.  I suggest it out of compassion, not criticism.  In any case, I won't have any more comments or advice for you.  Good luck.