Window period of RNA HIV test

[ben9999imsc]

What is the window period of the RNA HIV test right now?

Some websites say 1-2 weeks but some researchers say it would take 5 weeks (but the research is posted nearly ten years ago)

I have unprotected sex with a prostitute on 17th July, i plan to have a RNA test on 1st August.

[ben9999imsc]

you said your viral load test is less than 50 copies but the antibody test is positive? If so, how many antibody you have?

[Teak]

PCR-RNA are not stand alone tests even in Austria. All PCR-RNA tests must be followed up with an antibody test.

[trekstar]

This is what I mean:

A false-positive result (that is, a detectable, low viral load in a blood sample from a person that is not infected), when it does happen, will easily be recognised as a false-positive, because, if taken during the first weeks since possible infection, the viral load would be expected to be much higher. Also, when this sample is re-run, it will indeed be undetectable.

[Teak]

King County Public Health, the Dr. HHH is a member.

The FDA has not approved these PCR tests as ways to identify new HIV infections. The regular antibody test continues to be the most accurate and reliable way for people to know if they are infected with HIV.

[Teak]

I did not read your post to hastily. What I quoted is what you posted. A viral load of <2500 does not mean a person is not positive at all. Not all people have ARS.

[trekstar]

I guess you read that one through too hastily, Teak. What you describe is a false NEGATIVE, now a false positive. A false negative result at three weeks would be extremely unlikely, although I'm sure they do happen... there are at least four studies on primary infection that show that viral-load test was able to pick up ALL of the real positive subjects suffering from ARS.