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Updated Info on Window Period?
Hi all, This question is primarily directed at the community moderators.
I volunteer at a health clinic that offers free rapid HIV antibody testing. We primarily use the Unigold fingerstick blood test, but occasionally use the OraQuick oral swab test. I receive many questions from clients about the window period for HIV. I always reference the CDC's and test manufacturers' guidelines that the tests we use are accurate 12 weeks or more from the last possible exposure, even though I know the docs here on MedHelp believe they detect the vast majority of infections well before the 12-week mark. This brings me to my question...are any of you aware of recent research into the HIV window period, specifically research addressing the approximate percentage of new infections that will be detected after the passage of certain amounts of time (e.g., 4-6 weeks post-exposure, 8 weeks, etc.)? I would like to have more updated information that my clients can reference in making their decision at what point in time they should (or should not) seek additional testing.
I volunteer at a health clinic that offers free rapid HIV antibody testing. We primarily use the Unigold fingerstick blood test, but occasionally use the OraQuick oral swab test. I receive many questions from clients about the window period for HIV. I always reference the CDC's and test manufacturers' guidelines that the tests we use are accurate 12 weeks or more from the last possible exposure, even though I know the docs here on MedHelp believe they detect the vast majority of infections well before the 12-week mark. This brings me to my question...are any of you aware of recent research into the HIV window period, specifically research addressing the approximate percentage of new infections that will be detected after the passage of certain amounts of time (e.g., 4-6 weeks post-exposure, 8 weeks, etc.)? I would like to have more updated information that my clients can reference in making their decision at what point in time they should (or should not) seek additional testing.
Thank you for your replies, everyone. I will check out the updated CDC guidelines.
No, there is no difference. Result is definitive.
"Late seroconversion" isn't really a thing. It's more a hype created on the internet.
You don't have HIV.
"Late seroconversion" isn't really a thing. It's more a hype created on the internet.
You don't have HIV.
They are not as readily available in the US as in other countries, but that is improving.
The CDC recently updated their guidelines (I would think a clinic like yours would be aware of that?)
Here's a link to their new recommendations:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/docs/2014/HIV-testing-Labs-Flowchart.pdf
The major change is that no follow up testing is indicated after one receives a negative DUO test at 4 weeks post exposure (excluding rapid tests).
The flowchart outlines the recommended testing pathway well.
Here's a link to their new recommendations:
http://www.cdc.gov/nchhstp/newsroom/docs/2014/HIV-testing-Labs-Flowchart.pdf
The major change is that no follow up testing is indicated after one receives a negative DUO test at 4 weeks post exposure (excluding rapid tests).
The flowchart outlines the recommended testing pathway well.
New BASHH/EAGA statement on window period (Nov 2014).
This is concerning 4th Gen test.
Check out their website.
Well done for giving your freetime in helping others.
Your question deserves more replys.
This is concerning 4th Gen test.
Check out their website.
Well done for giving your freetime in helping others.
Your question deserves more replys.
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