Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.I had unprotected, insertive anal sex with a man of unknown HIV status in June. I was tested for HIV in December with "non-reactive" results. In the incident, there was transfer of feces from the receptive person to myself. My doctor did not test me for Hepatitis (A,B, or C). My doctor did perform a complete blood test, including liver panel, and stated my blood work, especially my liver panel, was perfect.
Since, there was a transfer of feces and would that put my at risk for Hepatitis C? If there was co-infection with HIV/HCV, could there be a delay in seroconversion for both viruses' antibodies? Or, since I had waited past three months to be tested for HIV, is my "non-reactive" test result conclusive? Do I need to test out to twelve months? Yes, I am aware HCV is, generally, transferred from blood and, generally, transferred through needle exposures. The extent of my doctor's post-test counseling was this statement: "You, only, need to be tested, again, if the last person you had sex with has HIV."
Mind you, my doctor did not ask how much time had elapsed before my HIV test and asked no questions--at all.
Mark H. Katz, M.D.
Regional HIV/AIDS Physician Coordinator
Kaiser Permanente of Southern California
It is actually hepatitis A, and to a lesser extent B, which can be transmitted through feces. It sounds like screening for the three hepatitis viruses would be meaningful--although a positive result would not necessarily mean you contracted it from this last partner. I don't think the likelihood of C is great. As for co-infection, if it exists, there is no evidence of which I am aware that it would delay production of antibodies.
As for when to test out to, a negative test at even 2 months is reasonably conclusive, and most people rest assured at 3 months. Some, however, say to test out to 6 months. There is no answer-carved-in-stone for that one--just please do whatever is comfortable for you.
060330
ASKD060302
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted grants from Boehringer Ingelheim, Elton John AIDS Foundation, John M. Lloyd Foundation, Roche and Trimeris, the National Library of Medicine, Bridgestone/Firestone Charitable Trust, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Copyright ©1980, 2006. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content.