HIV Test Results: What Do Your Numbers Really Mean?

Q: HIV Test Results: What Do Your Numbers Really Mean?

Xiao Chen： Hello. <br>1. <br>Changes in values are a normal phenomenon. <br>If you are still concerned, you can continue to have blood tests once every six months. <br>Just like some people weigh 60 kg today, 61 kg tomorrow, and 59.8 kg the day after, all of these are within the

Could you please provide the specific test values or details you would like to inquire about?

Hello Doctor, I visited a massage parlor last May and received a hand job from a sex worker.
There was no vaginal, anal, or oral intercourse involved.
However, after returning, I felt uneasy and worried about the possibility of contracting HIV.
In August, I went to the Taiwan Red Ribbon Foundation for a rapid test, and the result was negative.
To be cautious, I had an ELISA test at Taipei Veterans General Hospital in October, which showed a value of 0.279.
Still feeling anxious, I returned to the hospital for another screening at the end of January this year, and the result was 0.404.
Since last May, I have not engaged in any sexual activity, including manual stimulation.
The doctor at the hospital informed me that a value below 1 is considered normal, and most individuals with normal results fall within the range of 0.1 to 0.5.
I have a few questions:
1.
If my results are normal, why is there a difference of about 0.13 between my first and second screening results? What does this indicate?
2.
If values below 1 are normal, do values of 0.9, 0.8, 0.2, and 0.1 all indicate "no infection"?
3.
The doctor at the hospital also mentioned that discussing values in the tenths is meaningless, and that normal is normal, so there’s nothing to discuss.
Is this statement correct?
4.
Lastly, and most importantly, I would like to ask you, Dr.
Hsu, can I now feel reassured and no longer worry?

Xiao Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/01/29

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Xiao Chen: Hello.
1.
Changes in values are a normal phenomenon.
If you are still concerned, you can continue to have blood tests once every six months.
Just like some people weigh 60 kg today, 61 kg tomorrow, and 59.8 kg the day after, all of these are within the normal range; you cannot say that only 60 kg is a normal weight.
2.
Yes.
3.
Completely correct.
4.
I don't know if you will continue to worry, as that is a personal psychological issue.
I can only tell you that you currently do not have HIV.
Note: Some people may worry even when they are not ill.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers from the internet can only serve as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2013/01/29

More Info

Understanding HIV test results can be quite complex, especially when you have concerns about potential exposure. Based on the information you've provided, let's break down your questions and clarify what your test results mean.

1. Variability in Test Results: It's not uncommon for HIV test results to vary slightly between tests, even when the results are still within the normal range. The ELISA test, which you underwent, measures the levels of antibodies and antigens in your blood. A result of 0.279 and 0.404 indicates that both are below the threshold of 1.0, which is considered negative. The difference of 0.13 could be attributed to various factors, including slight variations in the testing process, the time elapsed since potential exposure, or even individual biological variations. It's important to remember that these tests are not designed to provide exact numerical values but rather to indicate whether or not you are likely to be infected.

2. Understanding Normal Ranges: Yes, your understanding is correct. Any result below 1.0 is generally considered negative for HIV. Therefore, results of 0.9, 0.8, 0.2, and 0.1 all indicate that there is no evidence of HIV infection. The numbers reflect the concentration of antibodies or antigens, and as long as they remain below the threshold, they suggest that you are not infected.

3. Discussion of Test Values: The doctor's comment that discussing values in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 is not particularly meaningful is somewhat valid. In clinical practice, what matters most is whether the result is above or below the cutoff point. As long as your results are below 1.0, they are considered negative, and the specific decimal values within that range are not clinically significant. However, it is also understandable that you may want to discuss your results for peace of mind, especially given your concerns about potential exposure.

4. Peace of Mind: Given that you have had multiple tests, all of which have returned negative results, and considering the nature of your exposure (which did not involve penetrative sex), it is reasonable to conclude that you are not infected with HIV. The window period for HIV tests is generally around 3 months, and since your last test was well beyond that period, you can be reassured that you are likely HIV-negative. However, if you still have lingering concerns, it might be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who can offer further reassurance or conduct additional tests if necessary.

In summary, your test results indicate that you are not infected with HIV. The variations in your results are normal and do not suggest any cause for concern. It's important to maintain regular health check-ups and to continue practicing safe behaviors to minimize any future risk of infection. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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