Question 1

I've got a question about my recent HIV test. I took an HIV 1 RNA PCR Quantitative test about six weeks after potential exposure, and the result was "target not detected." Is this result completely conclusive, or should I think about getting tested again later? I'm a little worried and want to be sure everything's okay.

Accepted Answer

Visit Physician for evaluation and appropriate management

Question 2

I'm dealing with this recurring infection caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, and it keeps showing up every couple of months since it first appeared in January 2019. I've had it in various placeslike my knee, finger, chin, nose, and scrotum. Even after seeing multiple doctors and taking antibiotics like Linezolid and Clarithromycin, the infection just popped up again on my right scrotum, and every time it brings on a fever. I've even had surgery for a carbuncle on my knee under anesthesia. The pus and blood cultures both came back positive for Staph A, but my nasal swab results were negative both times, and blood cultures were too. I'm really struggling to figure out why this keeps happening and would appreciate any guidance on how to stop these infections from coming back. What could be causing this, and is there anything specific I should be doing to prevent it?

Accepted Answer

Recurring Staphylococcus aureus infections indicate a persistent underlying issue. To address this, consider:

Medical Evaluation

1. Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) to rule out diabetes, kidney issues, or electrolyte imbalances.
2. Complete blood count (CBC) to assess immune function.
3. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) to monitor inflammation.
4. Staphylococcus aureus susceptibility testing to determine antibiotic resistance patterns.
5. Nasal swab and skin cultures to identify potential carriers.

Infection Prevention Strategies

1. Personal Hygiene: Frequent handwashing, showering, and cleaning.
2. Skin Care: Moisturize, avoid irritants, and use antibacterial soap.
3. Antibiotic Stewardship: Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use.
4. Immunizations: Ensure up-to-date on influenza, pneumococcal, and tetanus vaccines.
5. Stress Management: Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Root Cause Investigation

1. Carrier State: Nasal or skin colonization.
2. Underlying Conditions: Diabetes, eczema, or other skin conditions.
3. Environmental Factors: Contaminated surfaces or water.
4. Genetic Predisposition: Family history of Staph infections.

Treatment Considerations

1. Long-term Antibiotics: Consider oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline or minocycline) for 6-12 months.
2. Topical Treatments: Antibiotic ointments or creams.
3. Surgical Intervention: Drainage or debridement for severe infections.

Recommended Specialists

1. Infectious Disease Specialist
2. Dermatologist
3. Orthopedic Surgeon (for skin and soft tissue infections)

Question 3

I'm really concerned about my recent blood test results. They showed 1:160 for Salmonella Typhi O and 1:320 for Salmonella Typhi H. I was initially tested because I had viral symptoms. I'm just confused as I don't actually feel any typical Typhoid symptoms. Could this really mean I have Typhoid, or could there be another explanation for these results?

Accepted Answer

Your Widal test results indicate a positive for Typhoid fever. The titers for Salmonella Typhi O and Salmonella Typhi H are significant at 1:160 and 1:320 respectively. Even if you do not have any symptoms of Typhoid, these results suggest an active infection. It is important to start treatment promptly to prevent complications. You can take antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin with adequate hydration and rest.

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