HIV duo test

[jimbob95]

I have taken a duo antigen/antibody test 16 days after exposure which came out negative for everything including hiv and although i understand this result is not conclusive and i need to be tested at 3 months.

My question is that i have read from test manufacturers and studies that the HIV p24 antigen is a protein which becomes detectable at approximately 10 days post exposure and  peaks at 16 days .....does this indicate i am more likely to be HIV negative(although not conclusive)?????? How can proteins not show after 16 days then suddenly increase?

[Teak]

Wrong. There are no tests marketed or sold that have been given the approval to give a conclusive negative test result earlier than 3 months post exposure.

[RainLover71]

HIV specialist will tell you that the window period for a DUO is 28 days and only to test at 3 months if it was a high risk exposure.The CDC say the RNA has a window period of 9--11 days.

[Teak]

It has an accuracy of 99.89% at 3 months post exposure.

[RainLover71]

P24 antigen will peak between week 3 to week 4.It has an accuracy of 99.89%

[Teak]

You have been given the proper information. It's time for you to move along.

[jimbob95]

I have realised you seem to replace information with subjective and personal statements whenever you are unwilling or unable to answer a question

[Teak]

The only thing you need to concern yourself with is the conclusive test result. Had you been so concerned about prevention you wouldn't find yourself in this predicament.

[jimbob95]

I post as I am in search of information and I find this forum extremely helpful and this includes your contributions.... I understand the window period is short due to antibodY increase but my point is ..... How about during the peak of that short window period when p24 levels should be at their highest ..... Surely thats a good indicator? (all be it not a definitive one)

[Teak]

If you want a history lesson on the DUO test contact the manufactures. Had you read any studies it explains it very wll why the P24 antigen has a short window period.