What warrants late seroconversion/ the need for a 6 month test?

[Mac712]

Hello all. I have recently become aware that an immune issue could cause someone to seroconvert/ test positive later than an otherwise healthy person. I am anxious to know is PCOS (poly cystic ovary syndrome) is one of those causations. It is an autoimmune condition, therefore I was wondering if that would put me in the category that needs to test out to 6 months. I tested twice with 3rd gen rapid tests sometime last year for an unprotected intercourse exposure once at 6 weeks and again at 8 weeks (both times a negative test) and was told that time frame would be sufficient for a conclusive test. I want to be sure that my PCOS did not impede on the accuracy of the test or possibly cause delayed seroconversion. Thank you for your help!

[RubyWitch]

Much of the information about delayed seroconversion dates back to earlier tests, for the most part no longer in use.  With all antibody/antigen tests in regular use today, delayed seroconversion is exceedingly rare if it occurs at all.  Further, when you see statements that other infections (HCV or any other) can delay seroconversion by up to a year, or any other interval, almost always you are seeing opinion, not fact based on data.  There simply is no research to document such an effect by HCV, PCOS or any other health problem.  Even the oft-stated problems that supposedly occur with terminal illnesses, potent chemotherapy, etc are based almost entirely on theory, with few if any actually documented cases of inaccurate HIV antibody testing.  And even if that could happen, the viral tests remain as a back-up.  In theory, such immune suppression would result in an elevated viral load making current testing protocols more sensitive, not less.
If it has been since last year that you tested negative at 8 weeks, if you have had no risky exposures since then, you could take ANY test now and your results would be 100% conclusive. I would suggest testing only for your peace of mind.
RW  

[Mac712]

Thank you so much for your input and your time. I have been browsing the doctor forums and I have seen multiple posts about any 3rd or 4th gen antibody test taken after 8 weeks- being considered conclusive. Since I took one at 8 weeks and another at 10 (both 3rd gen rapids) I am able to put this behind me. Happy new year and have a wonderful day!

[RubyWitch]

Your welcome! Now relax and enjoy what the New Year will bring!