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Can HIV Test Results Be False Positive During The First Test?

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Posted on Wed, 18 Oct 2017
Question: Hi,
I recently took an rapid 28 day exposure HIV test for routine purposes but i had not had any unprotected sex within this window.
The inital test came back slighly postive very quickly.
We then re sine the same test 2 more times and both results came back negative.
We also did a 90 day test which also came back negative.
We also then did a labarotory test which also came back as negative.
The doctors have put it down to a faulty test kit on the initial test.
I asked the question is it anyway possible that the first test which was positive could have picked up the virus and the other 4 tests inclding the lab tests which were all negative didnt pick up.
I was told that if the virus was active then it would have shown up in the 4 tests and that the lab test is the test for 100% certainity and they have assured me that am negative.
Just wanted to get a second opinion as i am still a little bit worried as i dont really understand it all.
And just want to be 100% sure that the initial positive test was defitantly incorrect because of the that the fact that all the other test including the lab test came back negative.
I.E if it was in the blood then it would show up in the other tests using different blood samples all on the same day?

doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Monika Dede (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Please don't worry. You are free of HIV.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you writing in healthcare magic.

Based on your history, I think that the first rapid test could be false positive.
So, having a negative result of 4 generation test after 90 days I think you shouldn't worry because you are definitely free of HIV.This test is very conclusive after 3 months.


I hope my answer helps you.
Regards.
Note: Get personalized answers to your HIV related queries You can choose to talk face to face with your doctor. Book a Video Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
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Answered by
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Dr. Dr. Monika Dede

Infectious Diseases Specialist

Practicing since :2003

Answered : 1005 Questions

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Can HIV Test Results Be False Positive During The First Test?

Brief Answer: Please don't worry. You are free of HIV. Detailed Answer: Hello, Thank you writing in healthcare magic. Based on your history, I think that the first rapid test could be false positive. So, having a negative result of 4 generation test after 90 days I think you shouldn't worry because you are definitely free of HIV.This test is very conclusive after 3 months. I hope my answer helps you. Regards.