Hello Doctor, I recently did an HIV test using the ICT method about 1 month after possible exposure. How accurate is this test at this stage? Should I get tested again for confirmation?

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Dr Bhanu Prakash

General Practitioner

MBBS
AFIH
Advanced certificate in critical care medicine
Fellowship in critical care medicine
10+ Yrs

Consult Now

The HIV ICT test is a basic screening test and may not fully detect early infections if done only after 1 month. Since antibodies take time to develop, its recommended to repeat the test at 3 months using a 4th generation (CMIA or Duo) test, which checks for both antigen and antibody. This gives more accurate and reliable results.

Dr. Bhanu Suggests...

Take a HIV 1 AND 2 ANTIBODIES Test

Book HIV 1 AND 2 ANTIBODIES Test

Answered 10/09/2025

More HIV DUO (HIV P24 ANTIGEN, HIV 1 & 2 ANTIBODY) Health Queries

View all

My report states that HIV 2 can be slow progressors to AIDS. I did an RTPCR test after 6 years of exposure, and the result was nondetected. However, the report notes that if the viral load is below 100 copies, the result may still come as non detected. My question is, if I had been infected with HIV 2 six years ago and have not taken any medication, could the viral load still be below 100 copies after six years due to slow progression?

Answered by Apollo Doctors

Hello sir, I have tested with regular blood and urine tests and everything is normal. Can HIV be identified from these test reports? Please suggest what test is required for this.

Answered by Apollo Doctors

Hello Doctor, I tested negative on a 45 day HIV combo antigen and antibody test, and also negative on a 67 day HIV antibody test. Is it still possible for the test to turn positive after 90 days? Please advise.

Answered by Apollo Doctors

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.