Can HIV RNA be negative at day 21 and turn positive later?

Hi,

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I have gone through the photo (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Though the photo is not clear, I can make out slight redness on the glans. It may be due to irritation or fungal infection. Do not overclean the area. Clean the area with warm water twice daily. Observe if any rash develops. The transmission of HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) by single unprotected intercourse with a positive person is 1/200 to 1/1000. Here, it is low. She may be negative too. Then the chance is nil. HIV-1 RNA PCR is sensitive after 7 to 10 days. So, the chance of HIV -1 is almost nil. The Duo test is considered sensitive after one month. It detects both antigen and HIV 1 and HIV-2 antibodies. Some consider it conclusive after one month. You can go for HIV 1 and HIV-2 RNA PCR (Ribonucleic acid Polymerase chain reaction) at this stage. The chance of HIV-2 is very rare. You can get her history or get her tested to allay fears totally.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is good if the rash has subsided. Observe the area. Therash is not related to HIV. You can allay fears about HIV and rash. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)-1 RNA PCR (Ribonucleic Acid Polymerase chain reaction) is very sensitive (more than 99%) after 10 days of exposure. The chances of it coming back positive later are almost nil. It does not detect HIV 2. So, you can go for HIV 1 and HIV-2 RNA PCR. HIV Duo after one month is considered conclusive by many. With the given history and tests, it may be considered conclusive after one month. You can go for the final antibody test (HIV 1 and HIV-2) after three months to be totally free from anxiety. The chance of HIV tests becoming positive later is nil.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the photos (attachment removed to protect patient identity). There is no significant rash now. It may be due to irritation or fungal infection. Just clean the area with warm water twice daily. Wear loose cotton innerwear. These are not related to HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). You can allay fears of HIV.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

With the given history, details, and test reports, I would take it as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) negative. The chances of HIV tests coming positive later are nil. You can allay fears of HIV.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

There is no need to repeat the duo test. There will be no difference. It is better to get the test after three months to have conclusive results. It is negative; reiterate that you are free from HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). The fungal infection or allergic rash is known for recurrence. If the rash is different from the earlier rash, you can send clear photos for clarification. Otherwise, follow the same treatment. Any simple infection in the genital area or lower limb can lead to inguinal lymph node swelling. So, do not relate it to HIV. The symptoms are not due to HIV. Allay fears of HIV.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the photos (attachment removed to protect patient identity). It appears to be either due to fungal infection or irritation. Clean the area with warm water twice daily. You can apply Clotrimazole cream, like Candid cream, after consulting your doctor. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) RNA PCR (Ribonucleic Acid Polymerase Chain Reaction) after 10 days of exposure and a duo test after one month is a very sensitive test. It is considered conclusive by many. The chances of tests coming back positive later are nil. You can allay the fears of HIV. To relieve your anxiety and get a final conclusive result, it is better to get tested after three months.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reach out in case of further queries.

Thank you.