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PCR DNA test ?

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February 19th, 2010
Infection though test?
couple of days ago i posted a question and got the comprehensive answer it was very helpful. But I have another a question and I would be very happy if experts will answe me. Could you please tell me what do you think about PCR DNA test? for diagnosing hiv infection, some sourses say if its done after surtain while after possible infection it has almost 100% acuracy and its conclusive, while some say one should not rely on it.. what can you tell me about it and when do you think its good time to get tested with PCR.
Enother quesiton - can you tell me about other infection deseases and (hepatites and others) does it have window period as well or can person have hepatites without simptoms, if not when those simptoms apear. Is it nessesary to get tested to find out weather infection exist or its posible to tell though simptoms?


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replied February 23rd, 2010
Infectious Diseases Answer A10225
Hi, and thanks for your medical question on eHealth forum!

The HIV DNA PCR tests can detect presence of HIV infection within 28 days of infection with more than 99% accuracy level. Together with positive HIV antibody ELISA screening test and the HIV antibody Western confirmatory test, the diagnosis is 100% HIV.
Yes, it is necessary to test if co-infection exists.

Hepatitis B has a window period of 6-12 months when Ig M is lost. This is the period between the disappearance of HBsAg and the appearance of anti-HBs. In many cases of delayed sero conversion of HIV, with a false negative result Hepatitis C infection co-exists. Hence it is possible to have hepatitis infection without symptoms. Also along with screening tests, liver function tests should be carried out.

Please discuss these possibilities with your specialist. Hope this helps. Take care!



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