Hi there,
Thanks for using the AIDS Vancouver Helpline. The 4th Generation test detects the P24 antigen and HIV antibodies in the blood. It is quite specific and the P24 protein aspect of it is time sensitive (only detectable within the first couple of weeks). The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends testing 12 weeks after the last possible exposure to HIV, depending on the risk level of the experience. A health care provider may have advised you that your test was conclusive, without need for follow up, if they assessed that you are in a low risk group. I'm not sure about what experience you had, that led to HIV testing.
I hope this answered your question. Feel free to contact us at 604-696-4666 if you have any further questions. You can call anonymously and all information will be kept confidential.
Kind Regards,
Carlo
Fouth Generation Tests
Original Post Date:
Friday, December 3, 2010
Question:
I had a 4th Generation Combination Test wherein they test for both the antibody and the antigen. The result was negative at 6 weeks and both the doctor and nurse said the result was conclusive and did not need repeating at 3 months.
In researching the test, I found a website for a private STD clinic in the UK that says that the 4th generation test is conclusive after 28 days and, again, in their forum answers they say that further testing after 28 days is unnecessary: http://www.freedomhealth.co.uk/sexual-health/hiv-testing/125/
Do you know much about 4th generation tests and would you agree that another test at 3 months is not needed?
Thanks, I appreciate your forum.
Answer:
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