Just one question

[careytsmith]

Hello all,

I had what I believe was a low risk to no risk encounter but since I was intoxicated I cannot be 100% sure.  I have tested on 3 occasions 6 wk PCR RT DNA, HIV1,2 antibody as well as at wk 8 HIV1 antibody and then again at 14 wks with unigold rapid HIV1.  All negative.

I had posted a question on the Drs forum (on Medhelp) earlier but I felt more comfortable testing out to 13+ wks based on the advice I read on here, as well as the CDC's.  My question is this: I had read a thread back in Aug 2010 that said that rapid test were not as reliable.  I know it was a study that was somewhat controversial (at the time) but I just want to be sure that the test I have taken was done at the appropriate time and is 100% conclusive.  Would you recommend I take a blood test rather than a rapid test?  Also in your experience/opinion is a test done at 13 wks conclusive for all strains, types etc even if it was only a test for HIV 1?  If not I would appreciate it if you would let me know if you think I should take another test that tests for HIV1&2 specifically

And last but not least, when I took my rapid test that young lady used the dropper to place my blood sample in the test area then applied the solution (4-5 drops) to the test area.  However, when she was moving the rapid test she dropped it on the counter and it tipped sideways and a little of the solution spilled out.  Would this affect the test results?  It is my understanding that the test have a built in "fail safe" that lets you know if the test wasnt done right but I just want to be sure.

I promise that this will be a one time question and I will not follow up with a bunch of "what ifs".   

Thanks

[RapidRod]

What was your exposure?

[Ann]

Carey,

Going by your test results thus far, you do not have hiv. The vast majority of people who have actually been infected will seroconvert and test positive by six weeks, with the average time to seroconversion being only 22 days. A six week negative must be confirmed at the three month point but is highly unlikely to change. You're also highly unlikely to get a negative PCR result at six weeks.

You do not have hiv.

Ann

[careytsmith]

@RapidRod-my exposure was with TS csw and from what I remember was limited to very brief oral and masterbation (on my part). I know and am confident that if this was my only exposure that I wouldn't even need to test.  However 8 days after I had a fever for one day followed by a splotchy rash on my torso, neck, face and back.  This caused me to second guess what I may have done. I feel confidant that I did not receive anal sex (I think I would know since that would have been the first time). I may have briefly been the insertive partner.  Again, I am not sure that even happened but I wanted to be on the safe side and test.

@Ann- thanks for your reply, I apprecitlate it and will now put this behind me.  The only regret I have is that I drank to much beforehand. This is not something I normally do, and I always use condoms unless I am in a monogamous relationship where we have both tested.

Thanks to everyone for the valuable information you provide and for your patience with all of us worry wells!

Take care

[RapidRod]

You never had an exposure to HIV from masturbation and oral sex.

[careytsmith]

@RapidRod-thanks for the answer.  I completely agree with and I think I just let myself succumb to irrational anxiety.  I fully believe now that had I behaved in a way that would allow transmission that I would most certainly know/recall.  Thanks for the help