HIV Testing - Should I Get a Second Test?

[James99]

Dear Doctor,

I just got the HIV finger prick test done and was told the results were negative, as the first line was white and the second control line was red. However I noticed that there were parts of the first white strip that the blood stuck to (the left and right side, and a gap in the middle). Is this normal for that kind of test or in your opinion should I get a second test done elsewhere? I know that it's normal for the background of the test to turn pink, but should I be concerned if there are areas of the first line that don't stay white?

Thanks,
James

[James99]

Thanks doctor.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Welcome back to the forum.

The rapid HIV tests, both finger stick and oral fluids, are pretty much idiot-proof -- so much so that it is possible that in the future they will be approved for use at home like pregnancy tests, i.e. without involvement of trained medical personnel.  I can't comment on your description of the color dhanges, but this sounds like your OCD leading you to pay too much attention to details of the test procedure that don't matter.  If the person performing the test said your result was negative, you can rely on it.

Regards--  HHH, MD