http://www.fda.gov/downloads/BiologicsBloodVaccines/BloodBloodProducts/ApprovedProducts/PremarketApprovalsPMAs/ucm092878.pdf
3 months is conclusive and has been since 2004.
Im sorry mike did u say the COBAS® AmpliPrep/COBAS® TaqMan® HIV-1 test was a DNA PCR? I dont think it is, because even on the test result it clearly states HIV RNA PCR. I do know its a real time test and detects up to 48 copies. However it does not detect non clade B hiv strains and recenlty in the US n all around the world for that matter there has been an increase in non B strains, which is what worries e because i am positive i am exp lymphadenopathy n its to close to a risky exp to not be concerned about it and think it can only be cause by hiv. I guess i will have to test out to the 6month mark n wait for a positive.
PCR-DNA tests are not approved for diagnostic use.
I would suggest none because beyond 3 months NAT is not an advisable diagonostic test anymore. An antibody test is sufficient enough to rule out the infection because by that time the levels of anti-bodies are detectable enough.
However, if I still have to answer your question and you are ready to waste your money for no reason absolutely on a PCR it has to be a PCR DNA.
Hello mike,
If someone wanted to take a pcr in conjunction with a 3 month ab. test to definatively rule out an infection which one would you suggest . An RNA PCR or a DNA PCR? thanks
I'm sure that you have been told here time and again on this forum that symptoms are never an indicator of HIV.
I see no reason for you to not accept your 3 month's HIV AB negative result and move on.
COBAS® TaqMan® HIV-1 is the manufacturing brand for just another DNA PCR testing technology. Indeed some people go undetectable on the RNA NAT in their window period because during the whole viral multiplication process, the conversion of the infected RNA to DNA slows down and subsequently the DNA count goes up. However, the occurance of the above mentioned are pretty small since, the newer RNA NATs are very sensitive and can detect up to 10 copies /ml.
If you have already tested negative on an AB test post 97 days of exposure the odds of the result changing is "zilch", you have a definite result in your hand.