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Ask the Experts about Hepatitis and HIV Coinfection
Plz Plz answer......
Aug 26, 2008
Dear Dr McGovern,
I have tested negative (several times)(elisa) for both HIV and Hep C 60 after possible exposure (brief unprotected (5-10 seconds)vaginal intercourse. But even after 70 days of the possible exposure I still feel fatigued (dizzy always), muscle and joint pain and elevated level of ALT 155 to ALT 88 over 3 weeks.
1. Is it co infection which is delaying antibody?
2. Should I test HCV RNA and HIV antigen?
3. I have seen in other forums that 6 week negative elisa is conclusive for those who are not under chemotherapy or active HIV patient or immuno compromised. Is it true?
4. What else could be reasons for all these prolonged muscle and joint pain, fatigue? Is acute stage so long or I have entered directly to the active stage?
This is kiling me...:(.....
Response from Dr. McGovern
With an elevated ALT I would recommend HCV RNA testing; HBcore antibody IgM level; and a hepatitis A IgM. In addition, I would consider a monospot test.
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