I'm really worried about my HIV status after having unprotected sex. How soon can I get reliable results from an HIV1 RNA quantitative real-time PCR test? I've heard it's different from a qualitative test, so I want to make sure I get accurate information.

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Ibrahim Salah

General Practitioner

MBBS
2+ Yrs

Consult Now

After unprotected sex, the HIV-1 RNA quantitative real-time PCR test can give a quantitative HIV status typically within 9 to 11 days post-exposure. It is important to note that this test measures the amount of HIV virus present in the blood, rather than simply detecting its presence.

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Answered 04/07/2025

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I'm really worried and need some advice. I had an Elisa HIV 1 and 2 test done 21 days after a possible exposure, and it came back negative at 0.006. Is that result conclusive, or should I think about getting tested again in 2 or 3 months? I only had oral sex and kissed the lips of a sex worker quite a few times. Am I still at risk?

Visit your Physician for appropriate management

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I've been really anxious about this HIV thing. I had protected sex with a sex worker, but I was drinking at the time. From what I remember, there wasn't anything risky involved in what we did. Am I still at risk for HIV?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm a bit concerned about my sister. She had an exploratory laparotomy last August and was diagnosed with abdominal tuberculosis. She's been on ATT since September, taking Rifampin, isoniazid, ethambutol, and pyridoxine. She's feeling better, her appetite's good, and she's gaining weight, which is great. But lately, I've noticed her arms and hands feel warmer to the touch compared to others in the family. She doesn't feel feverish, and her oral temperature is normal around 98F. Is this something we should be worried about?

The recent onset of warm arms and hands in your sister, despite normal body temperature and overall well-being, could be related to her ongoing anti-tuberculosis treatment (ATT), particularly Rifampin, which can cause flushing and warmth;

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

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Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.