CONFUSED

[Maxfli2]

Have had several condom protected encounters with SP's and unprotected oral encounters. Developed raised red rash on arms, chest and stomach which is very itchy.

Have had no fever or other issues, with the exception of a sore throat.

Information on the internet is very confusing.
Does the rash associated with HIV itch or not itch? How long does it last?
Would you recommend testing for these exposures?
thanks

[Edward W Hook, MD]

No, with a negative rapid test at 47 days you can be confident that you do not have HIV.  No further testing is needed.  EWH

[Maxfli2]

I always thought fever was typically always present with early HIV. I forgot to mention I had a rapid test done at 47 days past exposure which was non-reactive. Would you recommend an additional confirmatory test?

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Cofactor?  Not sure what you mean. Fever is typically present in persons who have the ARS.  EWH

[Maxfli2]

Thanks for the guidance.  Am I correct to say, fever appears to be the most significant co-factor for infection?

Your comments about the internet are spot on. Poor information and a fertile imagination can certainly play havoc with one's well being.

Thanks again...

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome back to the Forum.  I hope I can help with the confusion.  I agree that there are problems with the internet.  The internet has the power not only to inform but also to mislead.  While there is much useful information available on the internet, much of it is also taken out of context or a bit unbalanced and some of it is just plain wrong. Let's address your issues.

Condom protected sex is safe sex.  The risk, if any of HIV or for that matter, any other STD from condom protected sex when the condom is used properly and does not break is effectively zero.  As for oral sex, the quoted figure for HIV risk, if one has oral sex with an infected partner is less than 1 in 10,000 and, in my estimation that is too high. Some experts state there is no risk at all from oral sex.  Neither of us on this site have ever seen or reading the medical literature of a convincing instance in which HIV was passed by oral sex.  There is a small risk of bacterial STDs such as gonorrhea or NGU following receipt of unprotected oral sex however.

Thus, given what you have told me, I would put your risk for HIV as being virtually non-existent.  A sore throat and rash are most likely to reflect some sort of community acquired, non-STD viral infection, not HIV.  If you choose to get tested for your own peace of mind, that's fine but I see no need to worry.  I hope these comments are helpful.  EWH

p.s.  The rash of the ARS occurs with fever, sore throat, muscle aches, etc and is not typically itchy.  EWH