Forum on HIV and AIDS Related Cancers: HIV Antibodies; will a blood count detect them?

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		HIV Antibodies; will a blood count detect them? Mar 6, 2002 If one is HIV positive the body will, after 6 months develop antibodies, right? So, If one has a complete blood count with a differential well over 8 months after a possible exposure and there are no indications of any abnormal lymphocytes/platelets, could one conclude one is negative?


		Response from Dr. Dezube A complete blood count with a differential looks at the white blood cells (used to fight off infections), red cells (used to carry oxygen), and platelets (used to help stop bleeding); it also determines the proportion of each type of blood cell. These tests have little to do with HIV tests. If you are concerned that you are HIV-positive, then you need to seek HIV testing-- plain and simple.

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