Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Recently Diagnosed HIV 1 - no strain detected??

Hello.

I have recently tested positive to HIV antibodies through a blood test at my local clinic. The next day, I took an oral fluid test and it came back negative. The following day I did a western blot test and it came back negative.

The next test came back positive; however, the labs could not find my viral load, but they have confirmed the HIV1, but not the strain of the virus. I was asked to come back for more tests to do a more 'sensitive' test to find the virus in my blood.....which still came back as undetectable! My CD4 is around 650.

Finally, the doc asked me to give more blood to send to research labs in UK, which will also be sent to the states to do a cellular sequencing of the virus. Does this mean I might have a different strain through mixing of the virus?

I am so confused and may elect to go on a trial that will be offered next month in the UK, which tests effectiveness of taking medications at different CD4 levels. The pro is that I will likely never have any immune system damage as my CD4 will remain and viral load always remain undetectable, but have to start taking medications many years before the viral load increases/cd4 drops significantly or down to 350, which is when the uk currently starts people on meds. The downside is that I will be taking meds for the rest of my life...

Any ideas on all of this...the doc said this is peculiar...
2 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Personally, I would trust the western blot test.  It is not possible to have HIV antibodies and not have the virus.  If you can get treatment, take it.  Even though your CD4 count is high, I wouldn't wait for it to get lower before seeking treatment.  The sooner you get treatment then better.  I got treatment very shortly after exposure and have been healthy for the past 23 years, undetectable for at least the past 10 years.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
You don't have HIV.
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the HIV, Living With Community

Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV and STDs.
PrEP is used by people with high risk to prevent HIV infection.
Can I get HIV from surfaces, like toilet seats?
Can you get HIV from casual contact, like hugging?
Frequency of HIV testing depends on your risk.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may help prevent HIV infection.