test sensitivity

I recently had a HIV DNA RT PCR test done, which came back negative (at 29 days). I called labcorp to ask what the sensitivity level was, and was told 40-100 copies per ml. Since there is no reference how sensitive is this?Is it possible that a new infection could be below this level? Does the type of exposure make a difference? I also had a Rapid test done at 24 days which came back negative.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

This question could (and should) have been asked as a follow-up to Dr. Hook's reply on your previous thread.

By 29 days into a new HIV infeciton, the HIV is always in the thousands.  Thus, it is not possible to have a negative PCR test at that time; the combination of your negative antibody and PCR tests is definitive.

HHH, MD