fingered and test

[Lorenge24]

Dr Jose,

only 3 questions:

1) Regarding previous thread, I understand (and agree with you) that the finger is smaller than penis. However, in this case, the finger (with lots of pre-cum) caused a big trauma in my anus perhaps because of the nails and the strong movements (therefore perhaps even more damage than penis). That is why it bled so much. In this case, I suppose the finger caused a likely route for the bloodstream, am I correct?

2) I AM SURE the only way to know is get tested for HIV. But just one question: during the 2-4 weeks (or whenever) acute sero-conversion, is it common to have a normal CBC? I have just received my CBC and everything is fine (Lymphocytes, Platelet etc.). I only would like to know if it is a indicator that I am not in HIV acute infection. I´ve read an article about CBC in ARS stating this (Evans RH, Scadden DT. Haematological aspects of HIV infection. Baillière’s Clin Haematol 2000; 13:215-230)

3) I don´t think we have a PCR RNA test in US, do we? In this case, can I do a ELISA 4th generation in 7 weeks? Is it conclusive?

Thanks,

[Lorenge24]

just letting you know I got tested this morning. After 9 weeks, it came back negative (HIV). Thanks for your help.

[Dr. Jose Gonzalez-Garcia, MD, MRCGP, PhD]

Hello,
Thanks again for your posts.  I will try to answer your questions here below:
1.) In theory it is certainly possible and there might be a risk.  I still believe this to be low.  However I obviosuly was not there; you know exactly what happen and I guess that you need reassurance.
2.) Changes in CBC, especially thw white cell count can happen and do happen during acute sero-conversion.  However this is not always the case.  Having had a normal CBC is highly reassuring.
3.)  I am not sure but I would imagine that it is available in some labs. If the ELISA 4th generation test also includes the p24 antigen, a negative result ast 7 weeks would be conclusive.

Best wishes,
Dr José