hi there

Can you please help with the PCR RNA test. I have read in various websites(probably not a good thing !) that
even if one has the PCR RNA test it will still have to be followed up with a DUO test. If that is the case is it sensible to pay for the PCR RNA test when it is not conclusive ? Additionally I have also read that it can give an incorrect reading . Any clarity on these points would be much appreciated.

thanks

[Dr Jose]

Hello,
Thank you very much for your post and welcome to our forum.
The test that we use, called Multiplex PCR RNA test for HIV-1, HIV-2, Hep B and Hep C is the same test used by the blood transfusion and organ donation services and has a reliability of 99.98% at 7 days. It has been in use for diagnostic purposes only now for less than a couple of years and for that reason, the guidelines recommend a follow-up test at 28 days with a HIV Duo test. However form a practical point of view, this test can be considered conclusive without the need to have the follow-up test. We have used this test in hundreds of patients now and have never encountered a single case of testing negative at 7 days and then postive at 28 days. There is less than 2% incidence of possible false positives. It happens rarely and it is more a technical issue as any positive result in the intial reaction will be tested further to elicit if it was really positive or a false positive.
Best wishes,
José

Dear Jose

Many thanks for your welcome and prompt reply .

That was really helpful thank you.

Just one further point on the RNA test. I had it done after 9 days. Therefore am I right In thinking no need to test again? My risk was protected sex with sex worker but condom slipped a a bit.

At what point using that test do most people test positive. I.e is it 5 days, so 2 more days are built In just to make sure?

[Dr Jose]

No need to be tested again and the figures given on my previosu answer relate to 7 days when most of the studies have been carried out.
Best wishes,
Jose