Author Topic: PCR Testing (Read 12146 times)

nycjedi · « **on:** July 19, 2006, 01:20:34 pm »

Hi,

First let me say what a great site this is. I can't thank you all enough for the help that you provide.

I just got my results back from a PCR DNA Test and it was negative. The test was done 28 days after my "possible exposure." I realized AFTER I took the test that my exposure was low risk. I didnt take an antibody test.

After finding your site and several others...I have learned quite a bit about STI's. Now, I understand that no one here would recommend a PCR based on the FDA not approving the test for diagnosis. But, when I spoke to the test counselor, I was informed that CDC abides by the PCR test and its conclusivity(not sure if thats a word

) @ 28 days. Does that statement sound false?

Even if I need to take another test @ 13 weeks...should i be encouraged by the results. the counselor told me that after the duration of time...I would have some level of detectable virus....and that fact that NOTHING was detected by this point in time proves that I am indeed not infected.

I know that while you wouldnt have recommended the PCR test....I did it for peace of mind...and now that it is negative....and I didnt have to go through the false posiitve ordeal that some have( which I know would be hellaciously scary) what do you think. My expossure was oral sex - both ways with another guy (TS).

Thnx again for your help.

Cobal916 · « **Reply #1 on:** July 19, 2006, 01:45:35 pm »

I had the PCR tests performed and had negative results at 28 days and 17 weeks after possible infection. While they can detect the virus at shorter time frames, the test will not always detect an infection. The fact that you had a negative test is indeed a good sign, you still need to test out to at least 12/13 weeks with the antibody test to confirm the negative result. Good luck,

nycjedi · « **Reply #2 on:** July 19, 2006, 01:54:59 pm »

Thnx for the Reply Cobal.

How can Advanced Testing System claim that the PCR Viral DNA test is conclusive - when it is apparently not? I just dont get it.

nycjedi · « **Reply #3 on:** July 19, 2006, 02:44:36 pm »

Would love any other commentary from the experts out there....thnx

backontrack · « **Reply #4 on:** July 19, 2006, 04:24:16 pm »

Regardless of what you might hear, a DNA PCR is validated by the CDC at 28 days. That doesn't mean that it's not accurate earlier, but at 28 days post exposure it is an accepted diagnostic tool. The DNA PCR test should not be confused with the viral load test. The latter occasionally gives false positives, but not the DNA.

NYER29 · « **Reply #5 on:** July 19, 2006, 05:21:30 pm »

Backontrack,

This makes a lot of sense because the testing service I used Access Medical Screens stated that if my result came back detected on Qual PCR DNA it was considered a reportable positive result to the CDC and State Health Department... Weird considering it is not an FDA approved diagnostic tool, not surprised though with 2 Gov't agencies contradicting each other in this day and age...

ScienceGuy25 · « **Reply #6 on:** July 19, 2006, 10:39:32 pm »

Quote from: backontrack on July 19, 2006, 04:24:16 pm

Regardless of what you might hear, a DNA PCR is validated by the CDC at 28 days. That doesn't mean that it's not accurate earlier, but at 28 days post exposure it is an accepted diagnostic tool. The DNA PCR test should not be confused with the viral load test. The latter occasionally gives false positives, but not the DNA.

Thats actually not quite true. Using the DNA PCR test to detect HIV infection can result in false positives. Any PCR reaction whether it be RNA or DNA can result in false positives because of the ease with which DNA from the environment can get into a reaction and contaminate. Don't quote me but i thought this was one of the reasons the CDC didn't recommend PCR testing for everyday HIV diagnosis??

Ronnie99 · « **Reply #7 on:** July 19, 2006, 11:26:36 pm »

That is what I understand as well. False positives can occur with the pcr proviral DNA test largely due to possible sample contamination or testing issues. A negative for this test though after 28 days is considered very accurate from what I have read. This is the test used by the porn industry in the US to monitor their actors.

The link below is an interesting report of testing related to a specific incident where pcr proviral DNA and Elisa testing was used.

http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5437a3.htm

Ann · « **Reply #8 on:** July 20, 2006, 06:40:10 am »

jedi,

Considering that your risk was limited to the GIVING a blowjob and not the GETTING, it is highly unlikely that you would have been infected with hiv. Even giving a blowjob is very, very low risk.

There have been long-term studies of couples where one is positive and one is negative. In the couples who used condoms for anal or vaginal intercourse, but not for oral activities, not one of the negative partners became infected with hiv. Not one. This shows us two things. One, condoms are very effective for the prevention of hiv transmission. Two, oral sex is much lower risk than previously believed. We now have the evidence that oral sex is a very low risk activity where hiv transmission is concerned.

This is also discussed in the hiv Transmission Lesson. Please read through the Welcome Thread and follow the links to the Lessons - there's a testing one as well.

A negative PCR at 28 days is indeed the next best thing to a negative ELISA at 12-13 weeks. All things considered in your case, you can rest assured that you are not infected with hiv. Test again at the 12-13 week point for your own peace of mind.

And while you're here, please forgive the length of this post but I want to make sure we cover all bases with you.

You need to be using condoms for anal or vaginal intercourse, every time, no exceptions until such time as you are in a securely monogamous relationship where you have both tested for ALL STIs together. To agree to have unprotected intercourse is to consent to the possibility of being infected with a sexually transmitted infection.

Have a look through the condom and lube links in my signature line so you can use condoms with confidence.

Anyone who is sexually active should be having a full sexual health care check-up, including but not limited to hiv testing, at least once a year and more often if unprotected intercourse occurs.

If you aren't already having regular, routine check-ups, now is the time to start. As long as you make sure condoms are being used for intercourse, you can fully expect your routine hiv tests to return with negative results. Don't forget to always get checked for all the other sexually transmitted infections as well, because they are MUCH easier to transmit than hiv.

Use condoms for intercourse and you will continue to avoid hiv infection. It really is that simple!

Ann

nycjedi · « **Reply #9 on:** July 20, 2006, 08:55:52 am »

Ann, etal,

Thanks so much for your responses. This is a tremendously helpful forum.

Thanks again.

nycjedi · « **Reply #10 on:** November 17, 2006, 10:24:19 am »

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hi all,

I know this is going to be a dumb quesion...but I just would feel better hearing from the excellent experts on the forum -

I gave a blowjob to another male (TS) and a condom was used...it was extremely brief (perhaps 3 mins tops) and his penis was in a condom the entire time - i just want to be positive that im taking a low risk and making it no risk - thx for the help

RapidRod · « **Reply #11 on:** November 17, 2006, 10:26:45 am »

You didn't have a risk and if you would have read the welcome thread like you were suppose to, you wouldn't have asked this question.

nycjedi · « **Reply #12 on:** November 17, 2006, 10:33:27 am »

Thanks for the "kind" assessment...I am trying to be proactive and not put myself in risky situations - i know that condom use is protective and that oral sex is low risk - but by using condoms for oral sex - is that essentially no risk - that is what i was asking - sorry for not reading the welcome thread - but i really wanted to hear it from one of the fine experts - my apologies to you Rapid - i do appreciate all that you do here -

Andy Velez · « **Reply #13 on:** November 17, 2006, 04:40:34 pm »

Yes, using a condom to give oral would make it "safer." The deal is that anytime you have sex with anything but your hand there is "theoretically" some risk.

But condoms do a very effective job of proviiding protection. Using one to give head would be the nearest thing to 100 % safe.

Giving oral is very, very low risk so it's a matter of deciding what level of risk you are prepared to live with.

nycjedi · « **Reply #14 on:** November 20, 2006, 07:31:31 am »

Thanks for the reponse Andy. So, just to be sure....do you believe that testing would be warranted in my situation. I have had several tests this year... all negative....and plan on doing so next year....just wanted to make sure that it wasnt warranted in what i desrcibed....again thx

Andy Velez · « **Reply #15 on:** November 20, 2006, 08:51:24 am »

You've tested sufficiently for an incident that many would not even consider a risk. With the negative results you've had it confirm you are HIV negative and can let go of this concern.

Cheers,

nycjedi · « **Reply #16 on:** November 20, 2006, 08:58:48 am »

Thanks once again Andy. Your thoughtfulness is greatly appreciated. But to clarify - I havent been tested for my lastest "exposure". As you can tell, this wasnt the only time I had an exposire like this - but felt compelled to test after my last one -

So, this i was an entirely new instance - happened well after my PCR test - my only exposure and this time i used condoms for oral (giving) and there was no insertive sex whatsoever - but my fear (as like many on the board) is do i need to test after every exposure - I am feeling that i dont have to - but i want to err on the side of caution and responsibility(thus the condom use for oral) as i know many wouldnt even bother to do that -

I know there are no certaintites in life - but given your clearly strong expertise - would YOU bother with testing in this situation?

Again thx so much for your advice - it really is so helpful

RapidRod · « **Reply #17 on:** November 20, 2006, 09:12:14 am »

You used a condom to give head so no testing is necessary. Please take the time to read the lessons found in the Welcome thread. It's the very first post.

nycjedi · « **Reply #18 on:** November 20, 2006, 12:52:04 pm »

Thanks again Rapid for your reply - its a stressful world - and I appreciate the time you took for your help - be well

Andy Velez · « **Reply #19 on:** November 20, 2006, 01:41:09 pm »

I don't see testing as being needed in your situation other than the regular annual or semi-annual full STD panel we recommend to anyone who's sexually active.

As far as your recent activities, I don't see any cause for concern about HIV.

nycjedi · « **Reply #20 on:** May 04, 2007, 08:36:58 am »

Well....unfortunately...Im back. This website was a great resource for me a while ago and i was so appreciative of the help you all gave to me.

The questions I have are in regards to oral sex.....After reading the Welcome Thread.. I still have some questions regarding Oral Sex and it as a possible HIV transmission route.

BJs= No Risk...that is pretty clear on the Welcome Thread....or at least you call it Theoretical Risk.
No real question there.

But what about cunninlingus??? Reading the Welcome Thread - it appears there are actually documented cases of transmission occurring....unless I read it incorectly. And yes that was my exposure - very brief cunninlingus and also very brief BJ (i know no risk there) with a woman of unknow serostatus. I am truly confused.... is testing required in this scenario or not....againg the Welcome Thread doesnt really make that all clear.

Or is the view of this board and the general scientific research that the only testing for HIV that is EVER required is if you have unprotected sex PERIOD. I truly appreciate what you guys do and the help you provide. Also, it should be noted that I have been recently tested for all STDs/HIV (for annual checkup) and all is fine....I just want to make sure this new instance doesnt warrant more testing for HIV.....thnx

RapidRod · « **Reply #21 on:** May 04, 2007, 10:36:51 am »

You don't get infected with HIV by cunninlingus. Other STDs yes.

Andy Velez · « **Reply #22 on:** May 04, 2007, 10:53:07 am »

I don't know where you are getting your (mis)information about the risks related to cunnilingus and I actually don't care. So don't bother passing along a link or such.

Transmissions reported via cunnilingus are anecdotal. If it was a serious risk we would have known it decades before today. Again, the risk is essentially theoretical. Could it happen? Yes. Does it happen in the real world of HIV? No.

You're sexually active and that repeatedly seems to raise a lot of anxiety for you. Instead of coming back here repeatedly with your latest episode, I suggest it's time for you to explore the situation in another way. Specifically with a therapist or other professional where you can discuss the emotional aspects of what's triggering these unwarranted concerns on your part.

That is something we can't resolve for you here.

nycjedi · « **Reply #23 on:** May 04, 2007, 06:21:24 pm »

Andy and RR,

Thanks for taking the time to respond to my question....

Maybe my tone came across poorly in my last thread. My intentions were quite the opposite. I, along with others who ask questions on your site, are just trying to "play it safe" so to speak. I wasnt looking to start a debate or even question your advice. What I was merely asking was.....on your OWN WEBSITE....on your own welcome thread...its says there are two documented cases of HIV transmission via cunninligus. In looking in the Welcome thread post... it was a bit confusing. RR and you have made it clear that there is no risk involved. And that was all I was really asking.....

Again, my apologies if my question came across as something other than which it was intended...purely educational.

The best to you both.............

Ann · « **Reply #24 on:** May 05, 2007, 05:49:52 am »

ny,

Maybe we need to add more information to the cunnilingus part of the Transmission Lesson. While it is true that there are two cases where transmission was alleged to have happened in this way, in both cases more information came to light later that cast much doubt that either the man or the woman became infected through cunnilingus.

Please also consider that these are only TWO cases in all of the world where cunnilingus was ever seriously considered as a possible transmission mode. TWO cases in all the acts of cunnilingus that happen every hour of ever day. Times that by over twenty-five years.

Cunnilingus is NOT an hiv transmission risk. I'm the positive partner in a serodiscordant relationship and we practice what I preach. We've been together for eight years and he is still hiv negative. Use condoms for intercourse and you will stay hiv negative, just like my partner.

Ann

nycjedi · « **Reply #25 on:** May 05, 2007, 10:47:35 am »

Ann,

Thank you for sharing your perspective with me. I often refer to this site - because I believe your advice is extremely sound. If there were real risks in a given scenario - you wouldnt even hesitate to say..."go test"... or whatever. I am not as up to speed on the subject and that is why I seek your counsel on these matters.....its most certainly not every latest episode as Andy said earlier (there have been quite a few in between...but i knew the girls sexual health status and my own)......

Anyway, thanks for sharing your thoughts...and I would agree if there are only 2 documented cases in the 25+ years of this pandemic....that is pretty encouraging to say the least.....not a real risk or one that certainly doesnt require testing for......

I wish you well Ann....people may or may not say it enough.....but you, RR, and Andy are truly a class act.....the best to you all....I wont be posting on here again.................

nycjedi · « **Reply #26 on:** August 01, 2008, 10:45:30 pm »

Its been a long time since i posted on here - hope all are well

Situation: Sex with a female CSW; I wore a condom - received brief oral sex and then had vaginal sex.

After I ejaculated - I pulled out and saw that the condom had worked = BUT this is where things get messy.

I wanted to make sure the integrity of the condom had remained good - so I ran it under the sink and it proceeded to leak on the side (Again the top or place where the head of my penis def did not break and my semen was there as well for whatever that is worth.)

You folks have been so great to me in the past and I really didn't want to come back - but I am really nervous about this; I tried to stay safe and I don't know if that is the case given this potential condom tear.

I appreciate any thoughts any of you may have.

Matty the Damned · « **Reply #27 on:** August 01, 2008, 10:57:28 pm »

You ran it under the sink? That explains why you can't get a girlfriend and have to pay someone to fuck you.

Honestly, I wonder why guys like you bother to have sex at all. You make it sound like such a horrible experience. Maybe you should just stay at home and masturbate instead.

That said, you're not the first worthy to tell us he had to "test" the condom after sex. The reality is that the condom tore because and when you filled it water, not during sex.

MtD

nycjedi · « **Reply #28 on:** August 01, 2008, 11:19:48 pm »

Thanks for your reply.

Yes - I agree it sounds silly that i ran it under the sink. I having been here before I have learned that a condom failure is usually catastrophic - which clearly this was not.

And maybe you are right MTD. Maybe my experiences havent sounded all that great - but i am sincerely concerned. I dont want to play the what if game - I simply want to know if there was a tear in the condom - would that have put me at risk. Your response - while appreciated - doesnt really address that.

If there was a tear - would this be considered unprotected sex?

All im asking.

Matty the Damned · « **Reply #29 on:** August 02, 2008, 02:03:40 am »

No Jedi,

I wouldn't consider this a risk. Personally I would consider this to be a case of the condom rupturing after sex and therefore HIV would not be a concern.

Clearly you are free to do otherwise. If you have doubts about the viability of the condom you used, you should arrange to have an HIV test 13 weeks from the date of this encounter. If you do, I'll bet you your left nut that you test negative.

MtD

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Author Topic: PCR Testing (Read 12146 times)