Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2006. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.I've read somewhere that PCR is accurate even after 24-72 hours from the exposure. How valid is that statement? If I get tested 5 days after exposure, how valid are these results?
Is that form of testing available in New York area, because I read some reports that is banned?
Mark H. Katz, M.D.
Regional HIV/AIDS Physician Coordinator
Kaiser Permanente of Southern California
PCR, which actually measures viral content rather than the antibody which the body uses to repel the virus (when it occurs, and which takes several weeks on the average to be made), may well turn positive within a few days. Thus, a negative test a week or so after possible exposure is very reassuring. HOWEVER, since the PCR is not supposed to be used to diagnose new infection, there are actually no guidelines (of which I am aware) which state at exactly what point the test will turn positive if infection has occurred, or remain negative if it has not.
As for your specific geographical location, please consult an experienced HIV counselor or test site for more information. What you refer to as "banned" is likely what I have alluded to above: It is not used for diagnosis.
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