apollo
  • Male
  • 31 Years
  • 22/01/2025

Hey, I've got a question about the P24 antigen antibody test. If I take it a month after possible exposure, will the results be conclusive for HIV, or should I consider getting another type of test too? I'm anxious to know how accurate it really is at that point.

Doctor 1

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

The P24 antigen-antibody duo test is highly accurate when done after one month of potential exposure, as it detects both the HIV virus and antibodies. However, for a conclusive result, it's recommended to confirm with a follow-up test, such as the HIV RNA PCR test or another antibody test, at 3 months post-exposure.

Dr. Shubham Suggests...

Consult a Infectious Disease specialist

Answered 04/07/2025

0

0

doc

Ask Apollo

AI powered Health Chatbot

Continue Chat
  1. Understanding the P24 Antigen Antibody Test

    • The P24 antigen antibody test detects HIV antigens and antibodies, indicating early infection.
    • It differs from other tests by identifying the virus sooner than antibody-only tests.
  2. Timing and Accuracy of the Test at One Month Post-Exposure

    • The P24 test is typically accurate from 2-4 weeks post-exposure.
    • At one month, it is generally reliable, but not definitive for all cases.
  3. Recommendations for Additional Testing

    • Follow-up testing is advised to confirm results.
    • Consider a nucleic acid test (NAT) or a fourth-generation test for comprehensive results.
  4. Consulting Healthcare Professionals

    • Discuss results and timing with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
    • They can guide you on next steps based on your risk factors and test outcomes.
  5. Emotional Support and Confidentiality

    • Seek support and maintain confidentiality during testing and follow-up.
    • Professional guidance can provide reassurance and clarity.

Recommended next steps

Consult a Infectious Disease specialist or Consult a Sexologist

Answered 20/08/2025

0

0

Sick? Talk to a doctor now

More Infectious Disease Health Queries

View all

I'm really worried about how long HIV can live outside the body. Like, if someone with HIV accidentally gets a drop of blood on a chair or table, is it still dangerous if I touch that same spot after 30 minutes? Can the virus still be active?

HIV survives outside the body for a short period: 15-30 minutes on a dry surface, up to 72 hours in a moist environment, but risk of transmission through casual contact is extremely low, and standard household cleaning and disinfection kill HIV.

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm really worried about the test results. The Widal test came back positive with Typhi O at 140, Typhi H at 180, and both Typhi AH and BH at 120. I'm not sure if this points to typhoid or malaria. Could you help me understand what these results mean?

Widal test results indicate a positive result for typhoid fever. The positive results for Typhi O and Typhi H suggest a recent or current infection with Salmonella typhi bacteria. To treat typhoid fever, I recommend a course of antibiotics such as Ciprofloxacin. It is important to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest during the treatment period. Remember to consult a physician before starting any new medication.

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

I'm really concerned about something. So, my mom developed this boil on her neck about six months back, and apart from that, she didnt have any other symptoms. We decided to consult a doctor, who suggested a Mantoux test. But heres the thingthe lab technician seemed really new and injected the liquid deep inside her hand, not just under the top layer of skin. After three days, it turned red. The doctor then recommended TB treatment based on the result, even though she wasn't showing any other TB symptoms. With the lockdown kicking in, we couldn't start the treatment for three months. When things opened up, we went back to the doctor, and they suggested another Mantoux test since quite some time had passed. This time, at a different lab, the technician did it right on the outer layer, and it came back negative. Thankfully, the doctor said we didnt need to start any treatment. This whole experience has been pretty confusing, and I'm not sure what to think now. Can a Mantoux test be inaccurate sometimes, or could this have been a mistake due to the technique used?

do alternative test like CBNAAT

read more
Doctor 1Doctor 2

Answered by 1 Apollo Doctors

Disclaimer: Answers on Apollo 247 are not intended to replace your doctor advice. Always seek help of a professional doctor in case of an medical emergency or ailment.