Question
Do HIV tests pick up all strains of HIV?
Hello,
I recently had sex with someone while I was away in Africa, I am ashamed of what I have done while I was influenced by a lot of alcohol. Now I wanted to have a PCR test done but I am a little bit concerned that the test might not pick up that particular strain of HIV what should I do. Do all HIV tests pick up the virus?
30 July 2010 • Related: All topics, HIV testing
Answer
Thank you for your question.
The HIV tests available in the UK and worldwide are able to pick up all strains of HIV-1 and HIV-2.
Not many clinics offer the PCR test. You would be better off having a fourth generation HIV test like the DUO or p24 antigen-antibody tests 3-4 weeks after your possible exposure. These tests are more accurate and free at all GUM clinics and GPs in the UK.
For more information please follow this link
Answer: Charlotte Walker
Comments
sam • 2 August 2010 11:23 am
Hello, thanks for the reply. I managed to get my doctor to refer me to a lab that would do the PCR test for me at a much cheaper price – if I did a p24 test at 17 days is this a good indicator or am i just wasting my time with it?
Charlotte Walker • 4 August 2010 2:12 pm
A p24 test at 17 days is a good indicator but you should also confirm closer to 3 weeks after a possible exposure.