Understanding HIV Testing: Can Combo Tests Detect CRF Variants?
Supplementary Consultation on HIV Testing Methods Hello Dr. Hong, thank you once again for your previous response. I apologize for missing one question that I would like to ask. In your earlier reply, you mentioned that the mainstream HIV groups or subtypes worldwide can generall...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, yes, the brands or testing reagents you mentioned are commonly used in clinical practice, and they should all be able to provide accurate results. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Can Combo Tests Detect CRF Variants?
Understanding HIV Testing: Can Current Methods Detect All Strains?
HIV Testing Supplementary Consultation Hello Dr. Hong, thank you very much for your previous response. From the relevant information, I understand that HIV is generally divided into three groups (M, O, N), but it seems that the main subtypes are concentrated in group M. I would l...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, yes, basically these subtypes can be detected using the combo tests. Therefore, if you have tested negative multiple times with the combo tests, there should be no need to use RT-PCR. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Can Current Methods Detect All Strains?
Understanding HIV Testing: Expert Insights on Results and Next Steps
Consultation on HIV Testing Methods Hello Dr. Hong, thank you once again for your response. I underwent the Alere HIV Combo test at a public hospital's anonymous testing center 39 days after the incident, which indicated that the test's window period is one month. The r...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, first of all, yes, the possibility of infection should be ruled out. Secondly, if there are no specific symptoms, there is indeed no need to perform further RT-PCR or other HIV tests. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Expert Insights on Results and Next Steps
Understanding HIV Testing: Concerns About Variants and Accuracy
HIV Testing Consultation Hello Dr. Hong, I apologize for the interruption. Here is my story: On August 2, 2019, after a gathering with friends, we went to a special location where the female service providers were from Southeast Asia or mainland China. That day, I engaged in unpr...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in response to your inquiries, here are a few points: 1. The combo test kits you are using are universally applicable, so there should be no type-related issues even in Southeast Asia; the results should be consistent. 2. Based on your description, you have not engaged...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Concerns About Variants and Accuracy
Understanding HIV and HBV Transmission Risks: A Guide for Concerned Partners
Inquiry about the transmission routes of HIV and HBV? Hello Dr. Hong, I would like to ask you a question on behalf of my girlfriend. She has a small wound on her toe due to paronychia. Last night, she called me and mentioned that while she was on her way home, a worker passed by ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the viral load of HIV in saliva is very low, so transmission does not occur through saliva contact, nor does it occur through contact with wounds. The primary mode of HIV transmission is still through sexual intercourse, so you can reassure her about this. Thank you for yo...[Read More] Understanding HIV and HBV Transmission Risks: A Guide for Concerned Partners
Understanding the Differences Between HIV Ag+Ab Combo and Ag/Ab Combo Tests
Fourth-generation ELISA testing consultation? Hello Dr. Hong, thank you for your previous responses to my questions. Today, I consulted with a qualified testing facility, and their testing item is listed as HIV Ag+Ab Combo (AIDS). In the past, the data we have seen mostly shows i...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
The HIV Ag/Ab Combo test results are indicated as either + or -; the first + or - refers to the antigen (Ag), which is the virus's antigen. Typically, if the virus is present in the body, the result will be positive. The second + or - refers to the antibodies (Ab) produced b...[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between HIV Ag+Ab Combo and Ag/Ab Combo Tests
Understanding HIV Testing: Do You Need Two Years of Follow-Up?
Inquiry about HIV/AIDS? Hello, doctor. I saw someone online saying they had a two-year window period for HIV. I want to know if they tested negative after three months, do they need to be monitored for two years?
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the so-called two-year window period is very rare and usually occurs due to reinfection during that time. Additionally, older test reagents had lower sensitivity, which is why some individuals may indeed be monitored for two years. However, with the current generation of C...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Do You Need Two Years of Follow-Up?
Understanding the Differences Between HIV Ag+Ab Combo and HIV Ag/Ab Combo Tests
Fourth-generation ELISA testing supplementary consultation? Hello Dr. Hong, thank you for your explanation. I may not have expressed myself clearly. When you mentioned “+,” you were referring to a positive test result, and “-” refers to a negative test result, correct? However, I...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, these two expressions have the same meaning. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between HIV Ag+Ab Combo and HIV Ag/Ab Combo Tests
Understanding HIV Testing Methods: EIA, ELISA, and CMIA Explained
HIV Testing Counseling Hello Dr. Hong, thank you very much for your response. In your previous answer, you mentioned that any method using enzymes and immunology can be referred to as EIA. The testing unit A I consulted uses Anti-HIV, and the technician indicated that they use EL...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the Chemiluminescent Microparticle Enzyme Immunoassay (CMIA) utilizes changes in chemiluminescence to detect enzyme immunoassays. It can be considered an advanced or modified version of the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), and it can also be viewed as a broader d...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing Methods: EIA, ELISA, and CMIA Explained
Is HIV Ag/Ab Combo Test Considered Fourth-Generation ELISA?
Consultation for ELISA Testing Hello Dr. Hong, thank you for your response during the holiday. Currently, many testing facilities are using the HIV Ag/Ab Combo, which includes both antibody and antigen (p24) testing. I would like to ask you, Dr. Hong, is the HIV Ag/Ab Combo test ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the HIV Ag/Ab Combo test is indeed what is commonly referred to as the fourth-generation ELISA, which can simultaneously detect both antibodies and the p24 antigen. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Is HIV Ag/Ab Combo Test Considered Fourth-Generation ELISA?
Understanding HIV Testing: Anti-HIV vs. HIV Ag/Ab Combo Results Explained
Consultation on HIV Testing Directions Hello Dr. Hong, thank you for your previous response. Generally, the Anti-HIV test is a more traditional antibody test, while the HIV Ag/Ab Combo is a newer test that detects both antibodies and antigens. I would like to ask you, if no furth...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, due to the current belief that the sensitivity of the HIV Ag/Ab Combo test is very good, according to the current testing protocol, we indeed interpret a negative result as no HIV infection if the HIV Ag/Ab Combo test is negative after 12 weeks. Thank you for your question...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Anti-HIV vs. HIV Ag/Ab Combo Results Explained
Understanding HIV Testing: ELISA vs. EIA and the Fourth Generation Combo Test
HIV Testing Consultation Hello Dr. Hong, I am seeking clarification regarding HIV screening. I consulted Testing Unit A, which indicated that they use the fourth-generation ELISA (Combo), while Testing Unit B mentioned they use traditional EIA. From my understanding and research,...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) is a general term that refers to any method that utilizes enzymes and immunological techniques. EIA encompasses various approaches, with the most commonly used being the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). However, currently, the terms EIA and ELIS...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: ELISA vs. EIA and the Fourth Generation Combo Test
Does Antibiotic Use Affect HIV Testing Results?
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screening I would like to ask about HIV testing. I took antibiotics the night before the test, received an antibiotic injection a week prior, and also took anti-inflammatory medication and folic acid. Will this affect the test results? Thank y...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
I cannot.[Read More] Does Antibiotic Use Affect HIV Testing Results?
Impact of Medications on HIV Ag/Ab Combo Test Results: What You Need to Know
HIV Ag/Ab Combo test issues? Hello Dr. Hong, I have a heart stent placed and am currently taking the following six medications: Ticagrelor (Brilinta) and enteric-coated Aspirin (two antiplatelet medications), Valsartan and Amlodipine Besylate (antihypertensive medications), Propr...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the medications you are currently taking do not have any reported effects on the HIV Ag/Ab Combo test or the general antibody test (Anti-HIV), so they should not have a significant impact on this examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Impact of Medications on HIV Ag/Ab Combo Test Results: What You Need to Know
Understanding the Risks of HIV Transmission During Anoscopy Procedures
Hygiene Issues with Anoscopy Hello Dr. Hong: Yesterday, I visited the clinic for hemorrhoids, and the doctor performed a rectal examination using an anoscope. Although there was no bleeding from the anus, it is still a sensitive mucosal area, and I am concerned about whether the ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the anal speculum does have specific disinfection methods, and following the correct disinfection procedures can prevent many infectious issues, including the HIV you mentioned. However, the key factor still depends on whether the disinfection process is properly executed....[Read More] Understanding the Risks of HIV Transmission During Anoscopy Procedures
Understanding Throat Issues: Symptoms, Risks, and Recovery Tips
Throat and pharyngeal issues? Hello, Doctor Hong. I recently visited an otolaryngologist due to a cold, and I'm not sure if it's related, but after drinking too much alcohol yesterday, I vomited. Today, when I ate garlic chives or some vegetables, I felt like they were ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, the most common cause is a fishbone or small bone lodged in the throat. The examination method is performed by an otolaryngologist using a laryngoscope to check the throat. If you have seen an otolaryngologist and they have performed a laryngosco...[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Symptoms, Risks, and Recovery Tips
Unexplained Fever, Weight Loss, and Joint Pain: A Medical Mystery
Unexplained fever with low-grade temperature, unintentional weight loss, and joint and muscle pain? Hello, doctor. I have undergone numerous tests in the infectious disease department, and the only abnormal finding was a slightly elevated cancer marker (for reference only) and a ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it does align with the situation of "fever of unknown origin." We should indeed be cautious about atypical infections or bone marrow issues. Therefore, I agree with your infectious disease physician's recommendation to conduct furt...[Read More] Unexplained Fever, Weight Loss, and Joint Pain: A Medical Mystery
Managing Hyperthyroidism: Medication Challenges and Allergic Reactions
Thyroid issues = Hyperthyroidism medication, urticaria, and medication-related problems? I was diagnosed with hyperthyroidism in mid-October last year (taking only one pill a day). I started with the first medication, Methimazole, but after three days I felt extremely uncomfortab...
Dr. Lin Jianliang Reply:
There are generally two to three types of medications used to treat hyperthyroidism, and typically, treatment lasts for one to two years. If medication is not suitable, surgical intervention or radioactive iodine therapy may be considered. Antihistamines commonly have side effect...[Read More] Managing Hyperthyroidism: Medication Challenges and Allergic Reactions
Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered
HIV testing issues? Hello Dr. Hong, I had an encounter with a woman on November 9th last year. About two to three days later, I developed a low-grade fever, sore throat, and a rash. After taking cold medication, I improved. As of today, I have not experienced any other acute HIV ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in response to your questions, I will address them in several parts: 1. Regarding the possibility of HIV infection, it is recommended to undergo a second screening test at three months to confirm that there is no infection. 2. Concerning the skin rash, I am unsure about...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing and Symptoms: Your Questions Answered
Understanding HIV-Related Neuropathy and Its Impact on Brain Health
HIV-related neuropathy symptoms Hello Dr. Hong, I had unprotected sexual intercourse five years ago, and for the past three years, MRI scans of my brain have shown suspected tumor formations. The affected areas are the cerebellum and brainstem. Initially, both the oncologist and ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, after HIV infection, the disease itself can present with such phenomena. HIV-related opportunistic infections, such as Kaposi's sarcoma or toxoplasmosis, may also exhibit similar manifestations. However, engaging in unsafe sexual practices does not necessarily result ...[Read More] Understanding HIV-Related Neuropathy and Its Impact on Brain Health