Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Is A PCR HIV Test Reliable?
Hi doctor. I had oral sex about a month ago.
I had a PCR HIV test done about 8 days after that.
The result was HIV negative. I had another test
Done about 5 days ago. The result was also
Negative. Do I need to do another test or does these 2
Tests confirm that I am HIV negative?
I had a PCR HIV test done about 8 days after that.
The result was HIV negative. I had another test
Done about 5 days ago. The result was also
Negative. Do I need to do another test or does these 2
Tests confirm that I am HIV negative?
Thu, 21 Aug 2014
Thank you for query.PCR (RNA-PCR)can be positive as early as post 3 days exposure .but as there will be variations sometimes with duration if the tests have come negative after 10 days of exposure we can consider it as negative.It is highly specific test (99%) for HIV.I do not recommend retest if it has come negative after 10 days.It is the fear or anxiety of patient that makes doctor to repeat the test.You can get back to me for any clarifications.to Dr Bharatesh Devendra Basti Dermatologist and Venereologist.
I find this answer helpful
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.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on AIDS
Loading Online Doctors....