Question
I tested positive but my RNA copies are not detectable…
4 December 2022. Related: All topics, HIV testing, Newly diagnosed, Sero different couples.
I am pregnant and my partner tested (Elisa) negative and am sure I have not been intimate with anyone else but him, my tests were done 2 times and came out positive but stated (Log unit – not applicable and RNA copies not detectable) of which I was never on any medication before. Does it mean he is also positive but on a window period? Am confused, what does all of this mean?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
Congratulations on your pregnancy. Did you also test using an ELISA? An ELISA test will look for antibodies against HIV. Testing positive means you have antibodies against HIV and that you are HIV positive.
RNA copies are used to detect viral load. It is very uncommon for someone to test HIV positive and have an undetectable viral load. Have you had any further tests to confirm your result? It is not impossible for this to happen but it is very rare. Have you started medication since having this RNA test? This would explain why RNA copies were not detected.
Have you ever tested for HIV before this? HIV can be transmitted via sex but it can also be transmitted via needles, drugs (sharing injectables) and from mother to baby. You being positive does not mean your partner is also HIV positive. There are factors that change the risk of transmission and this is explained here.
Josh.