HIV and Hep C co-infection and its effect on test results.

[carrrey]

Hi, I wanted to ask about HIV and Hep C co-infection and if it could affect the test results. I tested negative for HIV1 and HIV2 and the p24 antigen test ~6 months post-exposure. I also tested negative for Hep C (the result was 0.097 COI, if that matters). What concerns me is that I've read conflicting information on the internet. Some say that HIV and Hep C co-infection can slow down the process of developing both HIV and Hep C antibodies and that both tests can be false-negative at 6 months. Some say that no disease or medication affect HIV and Hep C antibody production. Which one is more likely to be true?
Should I get tested again in 6 months?

[carrrey]

Thank you for replying.

[Vance2335]

No, you never had a risk.

[carrrey]

I thought I had been infected by a nurse reusing a needle. I know that is highly unlikely in first world countries, but I had some strange symptoms so I considered that it might've happened. I don't know, is reusing a butterfly needle even possible?

[Vance2335]

You can look in the Experts forum and see that both Dr's agree that is will not slow down any production. And even if it did 6 months would be the latest for a conclusive test. But again it doesn't. you don't have HIV.

What was your risk?