HIV, Internal Medicine FAQ - Page 6

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Can Eye Drops Contaminated with HIV Blood Transmit the Virus?

Transmission routes of HIV If eye drops are contaminated with red blood, and if that blood is HIV-positive, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission if the contaminated eye drops are applied to the eyes. However, the risk of transmission through this route is considered to b...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The conjunctiva of the eye is a mucous membrane, and contact with bodily fluids containing the HIV virus poses a risk of transmission.

[Read More] Can Eye Drops Contaminated with HIV Blood Transmit the Virus?


Does PrEP Affect HIV Testing Results? Understanding Your Risks and Concerns

Does PrEP affect HIV testing? On September 27, I took 2 PrEP pills 2 hours late, and 1.5 hours later, I engaged in unprotected oral sex as a receptive partner with deep kissing, but there was no anal intercourse. From September 28 to October 1, I took 1 pill each day. Afterward, ...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
The report is accurate, but HIV infection has a window period. A negative PCR test on day 13 does not completely rule out the possibility of HIV infection. Currently, there are no studies indicating how long after exposure a PCR test can definitively exclude HIV infection. Genera...

[Read More] Does PrEP Affect HIV Testing Results? Understanding Your Risks and Concerns


Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex

Could it be HIV? Hello doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a woman yesterday. I have had a cold for three days, and the day after the unprotected intercourse, I noticed that I have swollen lymph nodes. Could this be HIV? I have never had unprotected sex before.


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of...

[Read More] Could It Be HIV? Understanding Symptoms After Unprotected Sex


Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns

Chronic urticaria Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if chronic urticaria can only be managed with medication. I have been taking antihistamines for over two months, and during that time, I felt fine without itching, although sometimes my skin would be a bit red. A few years ago,...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. The result of the antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is acceptable; although it is marked as positive, the value is still within an acceptable range according to rheumatology standards, so there is no need to worry too much. Regarding chronic urti...

[Read More] Managing Chronic Urticaria: Medication, Allergies, and Health Concerns


Can You Get HIV from a Cut by an Infected Sharp Object?

HIV transmission routes (through cuts) If you are cut by a sharp object contaminated with HIV-infected blood, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission. However, the actual risk depends on several factors, including the amount of blood present, the depth of the cut, and the o...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
There is a possibility (the information provided is too limited to make an assessment, so I can only say that there are risks involved).

[Read More] Can You Get HIV from a Cut by an Infected Sharp Object?


Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications

Regarding issue #201311? Regarding your inquiry about the risks of HIV and other bloodborne diseases: 1. There is a potential risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases if a wound or blood comes into direct contact with mucous membranes or broken skin. However, if the area around...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. If there is no contact with the skin where the fingers touched, theoretically, there is no risk of transmission (referring to the absence of blood, not just the lack of visible blood). 2. The risk is extremely low because the virus must travel from the bloodstain to the ointm...

[Read More] Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications


Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits

Concerns and anxiety about medical consultations, worrying about blood and infectious diseases? Hello Doctor: Yesterday, I took my child to a pediatric clinic for a urology consultation. During the consultation, I noticed that the physician had a noticeable laceration at the base...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Direct contact of wounds or blood with mucous membranes or broken skin may pose a risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases. However, if there is blood at the base of the fingernail and the finger touches intact skin, theoretically, there is a risk of transmission. 2. The surf...

[Read More] Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits


Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines

HIV testing issues? Hello, I would like to inquire about the Abbott fourth-generation HIV Early test, which can detect both antigens and antibodies. The antigen can be detected one month after exposure; however, regarding the antibody testing, can it still yield results if it has...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the fourth-generation rapid test detects both antigens and antibodies. It is expected that a positive result could be detected in about two weeks, but individual responses vary; some people may take three to four months to test positive. (A positive result for either antig...

[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines


Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Surfaces? Common Concerns Addressed

Inquiry about HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) 1. If you sit on a surface contaminated with HIV-infected blood or bodily fluids, the risk of contracting HIV is extremely low. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected bodily fluids, such as through open w...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Viruses can only survive outside the human body for a few minutes, so the risk of contracting HIV through indirect contact with bodily fluids in the environment is extremely low. Essentially, there is no need for concern.

[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from Contaminated Surfaces? Common Concerns Addressed


Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety

Regarding dental care? Hello, Doctor. I'm sorry, but I'm feeling very anxious. Yesterday, I went to the clinic for a dental check-up and cleaning. The dentist who attended to me kept chatting with the clinic staff while examining me. During the cleaning, water splashed ...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, to be honest, based on the scenario you described, there doesn't seem to be a significant risk of infection unless there is reasonable evidence to suspect that the clinic has reused disposable medical materials or has not properly sterilized them (which would not be b...

[Read More] Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety


Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?

Transmission routes of HIV (ocular) Is it possible to get HIV infection if HIV-infected bodily fluids come into contact with the eyes?


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-...

[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?


Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter

What is the likelihood of contracting the HIV virus? Hello Doctor: - I had contact with a sex worker on August 16: unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. - About 3 to 4 days after the incident, I felt a slight tingling sensation on the glans and noticed white or...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...

[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter


Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?

Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. I would like to ask you a question. Previously, I experienced full-body itching and developed hives whenever I returned home. After seeing a doctor, I took antihistamines for over a month, and now I no longer itch, but I still occasionally...


Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. An ANA titer of 1:80 is considered low, and if there are no symptoms, we usually recommend monitoring. 2. In cases of chronic urticaria, we sometimes test for syphilis, as untreated syphilis infection can lead to prolo...

[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?


Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect

Needle stick injury without testing for more than six months? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if, after more than six months since the injection, a recent blood test can show negative or positive results without prior testing. The injection was done with an insulin needle, and ...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, it is essential to identify which patient the needle belongs to and whether they have any bloodborne infectious diseases, such as HBV, HCV, HIV, or syphilis. 2. Since the window period has already passed, testing at this point can determine if there is an infection. 3. ...

[Read More] Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect


Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?

Transmission routes of HIV (needle stick) If I was injured by a needle on the seat of a motorcycle while moving it in the morning, and if that needle had HIV-infected blood on it, would I be at risk of contracting HIV from the injury? Why or why not?


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data: 1. There are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected...

[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?


Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure

Risk of HIV Infection Hello Dr. Lin, today after washing my clothes, I noticed a few small dried blood stains on them while hanging them out to dry. I absentmindedly picked at them, but I couldn't confirm if the blood was mine, as I hadn't noticed it before. Later, I we...


Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, viruses die quickly outside the human body and are unlikely to remain on dried blood stains. It is even more difficult for them to be transmitted by touching your hands, then touching a tissue, and subsequently coming into contact with the urethra. There is no need to worr...

[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure


Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?

Is there a risk of HIV infection from a scratched area in the groin? Recently, I had sexual relations with a sex worker. About 1-2 months later, I noticed that my groin area had been scratched and was red, with some broken skin, but there was no significant bleeding. I used a con...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk o...

[Read More] Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?


Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Healthcare

Infection risk Hello, doctor. Recently, during my internship at the hospital, someone left an alcohol swab contaminated with a patient's blood on the table. While I was reaching for gloves, my finger accidentally touched it. I have a habit of picking at my thumb, so I'm...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of transmission for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infecte...

[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Healthcare


Can You Get HIV from Food or Water Contaminated with Infected Blood?

HIV Transmission Routes (Food) If you have an oral wound and consume water or food that contains HIV-infected bodily fluids, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission. However, the likelihood of transmission through oral exposure is considered to be very low. HIV is primarily...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in sexual activities such as oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected ind...

[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Food or Water Contaminated with Infected Blood?


Can You Get HIV from Walking Barefoot on Sharp Objects?

Transmission routes of HIV (foot) Walking barefoot and getting pierced by a sharp object that is contaminated with HIV-infected bodily fluids poses a risk for HIV transmission, but the likelihood is very low. HIV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with certain bodily...


Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of inf...

[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Walking Barefoot on Sharp Objects?


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