Can You Contract HIV from Scratches During a Fight? - Internal Medicine

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Can you get HIV from being scratched?


Hello Doctor: Yesterday, I had a conflict with someone, and during the struggle on the ground, the other person tightly grabbed my wrists.
Afterward, I noticed that my wrists have wounds and scratch marks.
I'm not sure if the wounds are abrasions or lacerations (they are slightly broken skin, but there is no bleeding).
Later, I started to worry; if the other person has HIV or other diseases, and I am unsure if they also had any wounds during the struggle, could I become infected if they had HIV and there was contact with my wounds? I'm quite concerned.
Thank you for your response.

H, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/19

Dr. Liao Zhongxin reply Internal Medicine


Dear readers,
A.
First, please refer to the information on the CDC website: http://www.cdc.gov.tw.
There are three main routes of HIV transmission:
1.
Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infection.

2.
Blood transmission:
(1) Receiving or coming into contact with blood or blood products contaminated with HIV.

(2) Sharing needles, syringes, or diluents with individuals who are intravenous drug users and infected with HIV.

(3) Receiving an organ transplant from an HIV-infected donor.

3.
Vertical transmission from mother to child: An infant can acquire HIV from an infected mother during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding.
B.
From the above information, it can be inferred that the risk of transmission is low.
However, if you still have concerns, you may seek further consultation at a medical facility.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2017/12/19

More Info


When it comes to the risk of contracting HIV from scratches or minor injuries sustained during a physical altercation, it is essential to understand the transmission routes of the virus and the conditions under which it can be transmitted.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is primarily transmitted through three main routes: sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. The virus is present in certain bodily fluids, including blood, semen, vaginal fluids, rectal fluids, and breast milk. However, HIV is not transmitted through casual contact, and the risk of transmission through non-intact skin (like scratches or abrasions) is significantly lower compared to direct blood-to-blood contact.

In your situation, you mentioned that you sustained scratches or abrasions on your wrist during a fight, but there was no visible bleeding. This is a crucial point because for HIV to be transmitted, there typically needs to be a significant amount of the virus present in a fluid that can enter the bloodstream through an open wound. Here are some key considerations regarding your concern:
1. Presence of Blood: For HIV to be transmitted, the virus must be present in a sufficient quantity in the blood or bodily fluids of the infected person. If the other individual had a cut or open wound, and if their blood came into direct contact with your open wound, there could be a risk. However, if there was no visible blood exchange, the risk is considerably lower.

2. Type of Injury: Minor scratches or abrasions that do not bleed significantly are less likely to provide a pathway for HIV transmission. The skin acts as a barrier, and while it is true that HIV can enter through mucous membranes or open wounds, the likelihood of transmission through a small scratch is minimal, especially if there was no blood involved.

3. Environmental Factors: HIV does not survive long outside the human body. Once exposed to air, the virus quickly becomes inactive. Therefore, if there was any blood from the other person, it would need to be fresh and in sufficient quantity to pose a risk. Dried blood or blood that has been exposed to air for a period is unlikely to transmit the virus.

4. Overall Risk Assessment: Based on the information provided, the risk of contracting HIV from the described scenario is very low. The primary transmission routes do not typically include the type of contact you experienced. It is important to remember that the most significant risk factors for HIV transmission involve unprotected sexual contact or sharing needles with an infected person.

5. Testing and Peace of Mind: If you remain concerned about potential exposure to HIV or other infections, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on whether testing is appropriate based on your specific circumstances and any potential exposure risks.

In summary, while there is a theoretical possibility of HIV transmission through scratches if blood from an infected individual enters an open wound, the actual risk in your described situation is very low. It is always wise to maintain awareness of potential risks and to seek medical advice if you have concerns about exposure to HIV or other infections. Regular testing and practicing safe behaviors are key components of managing your health and reducing the risk of HIV transmission.

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