HIV PCR Testing

[Troy29]

I had blood drawn 29 days after a suspected exposure to the HIV virus. My sample underwent the HIV-DNA by PCR testing and came back negative for the virus. Do I need to follow up with an ELISA test after three months or are these results conclusive? Thanks.

[Teak]

Antibody tests are approved diagnostic tests. If the antibody test is positive it is confirmed with a Western Blot or IFA tests.

[confirmtest]

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/719310

[confirmtest]

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/719310.html

I spoke to the testing companies and have been doing a bit of my own research. DNA (qualitative) PCR cannot be used to diagnose HIV, yet neither can an antibody test since both need to go to the western blot if they come back positive. Yet you can use the qualitative to rule out hiv infection. Note:* if there is no HIV in ur blood at 29 days for example, HIV cannot just create itself out of nothing. make sense? It looks for the genetic material of the virus, whereas the RNA measures the QUANTITY (quantitative). But you should follow up with an antibody test at least 6-8 weeks. Also, remember, to each their own advice. If you're still worried, you should be asking the experts on this site i.e: dr.hook or dr.HHH. They seem to be very helpful and straight forward. We are not doctors, we are people trying to help. They are the real ones to ask if you're still worried. good luck

[confirmtest]

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/719310.htm

[Teak]

They are not approved diagnostic tests. If your risk was unprotected anal or vaginal sex then yes you will need to retest with an ELISA test.

[Dewe]

How long do you have to wait for those results to return? Sorry I didnt ansewer the question...thanks