"Extra" spot on Insti test

[Nenuphar]

Dear Doctors,

I have had an HIV Insti test today that turned out negative. Suffering from HIV-related anxiety (one of my many forms of OCD) I took a picture of the test after completion. The control spot at the top was present (=negative) but there was also a spot on the outer rim of the test to the right of the control spot. I didn't worry about it at first. However I went back to the clinic later and was told it was a "splash" -nothing to worry about. Well, I am worried. Have you come across something like this?

Also, I had the Duo test a few months ago (29 days post exposure). The doctor/nurse's point of view on this is that the Duo test isn't conclusive and that only an antibody test at 3 months + can warrant a definitive result. I only came for the "follow-up" test (over 4 months later) to put all this behind me but now I'm a bit perplexed.

Anyway, if you could let me have your thoughts, especially on the "extra" spot that would be great. Surely they know what they're doing and I don't need to retest?

Best regards,
M

[Edward W Hook, MD]

We do not look at photos on this site.  Dr. Handsfield would tell you the smae thing that I have. It is unlikely that you are infected.  I told you what the official recommendations are about this situation however.

You did not need testing in the first place because of your negative DUO test.   If you need to prove this to yourself, then you have my recommendation.

This will end this thread. EWH

[Nenuphar]

Anyway, here's the photo:
http://s15.postimg.org/83ym4mdwr/photo_32.jpg

Perhaps it was just a drop after all!

[Nenuphar]

Thank you for your reply. However please note it is not the oraquick test but the Insti test with blood taken from the finger and result available in 60 seconds (widely used in the UK):
http://www.biolytical.com/products.html

The control spot was present and there was no spot underneath. The "extra" spot wasn't on the membrane inside but on the outer rim. Please let me know if you'd like to see the photo.

Perhaps there is another doctor on this forum with experience of this particular test who could add his comments?

[Edward W Hook, MD]

Welcome to the Forum. I'll be pleased to comment.  I have no experience with "extra dots" on the OraQuick tests however, in general on such tests when they have extra spots or fail to show a control line, the test should be repeated.  If you feel the need to have another test (I'm not sure you have a medical need for further testing) the test should be repeated.

With respect to your recent Duo test, the results are definitive at any time more than 28 days after an exposure.  While more conservative persons might tell you that results are not definitive until longer periods of time have passed, this is incorrect.

I hope this information is helpful. EWH