Do You Need to Retest for HIV After a Negative Result?

HIV testing issues?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if I broke up before June 2019 and tested negative for HIV around November 2020 with a result of 0.10.
Do I need to get tested again? Thank you.
Could you please explain why the result was 0.10?

Judy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/17

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Hello, the HIV test results may not be "0" due to impurities in the blood, but as long as they are within the normal range, they can be considered negative, indicating no infection.
Regarding your situation, if you have not engaged in sexual activity from June 2019 to November 2020, and your test result in November 2020 was negative, the likelihood of infection is indeed very low.
If you have not had sexual activity from November 2020 to the present, there may not be a need to retest for HIV.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2022/04/17

More Info

When it comes to HIV testing and the need for retesting after receiving a negative result, there are several important factors to consider. Based on the information provided, it appears that you had an HIV test in November 2020, which returned a result of 0.10. This result is typically interpreted as negative, especially if the testing method used is an antibody test or an antigen/antibody combo test. However, the question of whether you need to retest depends on various factors, including your risk exposure and the timing of the test.

Firstly, it is essential to understand the concept of the "window period." The window period is the time after potential exposure to HIV during which the virus may not be detectable in the body. For most HIV tests, this period can range from 10 days to 3 months, depending on the type of test used. The antigen/antibody combo tests are generally reliable after 2 to 6 weeks, while antibody-only tests may require up to 3 months for conclusive results.

In your case, since your last potential exposure was before June 2019 and you tested negative in November 2020, it is likely that you are not infected with HIV. A result of 0.10 typically indicates a very low level of antibodies or antigens, which is consistent with a negative result. However, if you have had any new potential exposures since your last test, or if you are experiencing symptoms that concern you, it may be prudent to retest.

Moreover, if you are engaging in high-risk behaviors—such as unprotected sex with multiple partners or sharing needles—regular testing is recommended. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that individuals at higher risk for HIV should get tested at least once a year, or more frequently depending on their risk factors.

Another consideration is the type of test you received. If you had an antigen/antibody combo test, it is generally considered more reliable than an antibody-only test, especially in the early detection of HIV. If your test was performed using a rapid test or a home test, it is advisable to follow up with a laboratory test for confirmation, as these tests can sometimes yield false negatives or false positives.

In summary, if your last potential exposure was before June 2019 and you received a negative result in November 2020, it is unlikely that you are infected with HIV, especially if you have not had any new exposures since then. However, if you have any concerns or if your risk factors have changed, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider and consider retesting. Regular testing is a key component of maintaining sexual health and preventing the spread of HIV.

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