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What Causes False Positive Elisa Report?
Question: I was recently diagnosed as HIV positive however my RNA Real Time PCR results came back as "undetected". The initial ELISA testing was "repeatedly reactive" but when I went back for follow up to receive my viral load, my CD4 and CD8 levels were that of a normal non infected person. My PCP stated my numbers were better than hers. She also questioned the need to perform another HIV antibody test as she was unclear as to why I have an undetectable viral load and no apparent decrease in My T cell count. I have had only 1 partner in the past 5 years and his rapid test was negative. Is it possible I received a false positive as I have confirmed a western blot test was NOT used to confirm the ELISA.
Brief Answer:
False positive is possible
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for query. I am Dr Bharatesh D Basti answering your query.
ELISA false positive can occur in conditions like lupus, syphilis, Lyme's disease.
As your RNA PCR is negative and no virus detectable and CD4 counts also normal.
You may need to have a discussion with your physician regarding the other possible diagnosis based on your symptoms and need for tests to rule out other possibilities.
You can also repeat Elisa and western blot. As RNA PCR is also negative repeatedly there may not be need of repeating it.
You can get back for any clarification
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
Dermatologist and venereologist
False positive is possible
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for query. I am Dr Bharatesh D Basti answering your query.
ELISA false positive can occur in conditions like lupus, syphilis, Lyme's disease.
As your RNA PCR is negative and no virus detectable and CD4 counts also normal.
You may need to have a discussion with your physician regarding the other possible diagnosis based on your symptoms and need for tests to rule out other possibilities.
You can also repeat Elisa and western blot. As RNA PCR is also negative repeatedly there may not be need of repeating it.
You can get back for any clarification
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
Dermatologist and venereologist
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Ashwin Bhandari
Thank you for your prompt response. I am still unclear on one thing; if the RNA of the disease is continually undetected, would it mean I am not HIV+...I forgot to mention that I was given immunizations on the same day the test was taken. I received a flu shot and tetanus booster. Would these injections have an affect on the possible false positive results?
Brief Answer:
yes can give false positives.
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for follow up query.
Yes it is more likely to be HIV negative with given reports. Flu and tetanus vaccination has been reported to give false positives.
You can get back for any clarification else close the discussion and rate.
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
yes can give false positives.
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thank you for follow up query.
Yes it is more likely to be HIV negative with given reports. Flu and tetanus vaccination has been reported to give false positives.
You can get back for any clarification else close the discussion and rate.
Thank you
Dr Bharatesh
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Ashwin Bhandari
Answered by
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