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HIV and oral candidiasis

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I am a 23-yr-old male and alcoholic. I had intercourse w/ a sexworker about 7 months ago; protected vaginal and recieved protected oral, but was borderline blackout drunk and don't remember any details of what else may have happened. I have tested negative for syphilis and negative for HIV at 2 months and 6 months post exposure. However, I have oral symptoms that seem very similar to those of HIV infection that have persisted/worsened to this day. What is the likelyhood of actually being positive after the above test results?
Also, can you look at the following symptoms and try to assess?: bilateral rash on upper lip, continual peeling and dark discoloration of bottom lip, erosive/rough patches on insides of cheeks and lip mucous membranes, hard-to-notice white lacy streaks that change from day-to-day, occasional painless white or red sores and bumps on mucous membranes all over mouth, whitish furriness on middle to back of tongue, and some sore thoat. Thank you so much for helping!!!


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replied December 11th, 2008
Sexual Health - Men Answer A5076
Current medical status: neg syphilis and HIV test results. see question
Current medical treatment: see question


A window period longer than six months is very rare. Taking antiretroviral therapy after exposure might extend the window period up to 12 months.


The oral symptoms you describe indicate a possible oral candidiasis. Oral candidiasis appears more often in HIV positive people due to a weakened immune system, but many other conditions can cause it, too. Use of more potent antibiotics for a longer period, diabetes, steroids, cancer treatments and even stress are various possible causes. The oral candidiasis is very typical and is easily recognized once it is seen. It is treated with antimycotic drugs. But more important is to find out the exact cause that made the oral candidiasis appear.


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