HIV PREVENTION COMMUNITY
how accurate can a western blot test be?

how accurate can a western blot test be?

i recently took a western blot test after 4 weeks of my unproctected sexual encounter it came out negative but i have been reading that after 4 weeks the western blot might not be accurate. is this true? i would really appreciate the response of an expert in the subject. thanks
Related Discussions
5 Comments Post a Comment
Blank
230244_tn?1332212457
You only needed a western blot if you took an ELISA and it was positive. If you didn't then you were given the wrong test.

For a conclusive result, all you need is an antibody test 3 months after exposure. You should not have a western blot unless that antibody test is positive.
Blank
Avatar_n_tn
so this means the results might be wrong?
Blank
230244_tn?1332212457
Yes, it means that 4 weeks is too early for HIV testing for people who have had a risk.

This forum recommends a first antibody test at 6 weeks. If that test is negative, it is considered a good indication of your status and highly unlikely to change. However, a conclusive result can only be obtained 3 months after exposure.
Blank
Avatar_n_tn
o.k thanks but at this point i don't have any of the symptoms i've reading that could mean you have been infected is this a good sign?
Blank
230244_tn?1332212457
Symptoms or lack thereof are never a good indicator; many people who seroconvert do not experience ANY symptoms.
Blank
Have an HIV question?
100,000+ doctor answers
Post a Comment
To
Comment
Post A Comment
Go
Blank
HIV Tracker
Log your HIV progression
Start Tracking Now
MedHelp Health Answers
Submit
Top HIV Answerers
580755_tn?1323883171
Blank
Vance2335
Buffalo, NY
480448_tn?1333897721
Blank
nursegirl6572
PA
188761_tn?1320166132
Blank
mike_no
Bombay, India
Avatar_m_tn
Blank
gumm_BIH
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
230244_tn?1332212457
Blank
joggen
VA
173692_tn?1334017348
Blank
Teak
OH
RSS Expert Activity
1741471_tn?1336957856
Blank
LIVE WEBINAR TOMORROW!-SUPER BODY, ... Blank
May 22 by Michael Gonzalez-WallaceBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Fibromyalgia Awareness
May 11 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank
2126606_tn?1335910182
Blank
Opioid-induced hyperalgesia reduces...
May 03 by Clare Waismann Kavin, RASBlank