Dr. Bob,

First off many thanks for what you do. Reading the Q&A on this forum has done incredible things to relieve my anxiety. You gave me a WOOHOO a few weeks back. I had taken 3 antibody tests and 2 PCR tests. Results were negative on all. I had every symptom associated with HIV and at breakdown point. I actually contemplated suicide a couple of times during that period. I finally took a final antibody test at 14 weeks (doc said no more tests). It was negative too. I still feel kind of sore testicles, pain groin lymphs and left airmpit tender. These symptoms seem to be going away as well but have been there for more than 5 weeks. I don't know if I worried myself into feeling sick. I probably did and am writing for others in the same situation. I had a risky encounter with a female sex worker which I will never do again. I am 28 with good job, wife, and two wonderful little children. From the bottom of my heart thank you for everything you do and I will be sending a contribution to help your foundation. You have been kinder and more understanding than my doctor and wife combined. Dr. Bob, I still don't feel like I will ever have sex again because of what happened. Can I take another test in the future to be completely sure everything is OK? Should I?

I have learned a valuable lesson in humanity from this incident. I will be more compassionate and understanding and try not to judge anyone. You are truly the best!!!! Good luck and I hope we can beat this terrible disease one day.

With much respect, JR

Hello JR,

Thanks for your very kind comments. Can you take another test in the future? Sure, you can probably take as many as you can afford, and for as long as you want. The question is do you need them? The antibody tests and 2 PCRs out to 14 weeks past a potential exposure are considered absolutely conclusive. If you take more tests, youll get more negative results. Its as simple as that. My personal opinion is that you dont need any more.

"Compassion and understanding" are wonderful qualities, JR. If we had a bit more of that around the world, we wouldnt be at war, but rather using our resources to feed the hungry and tend to the ill. Lets hope that "compassion and understanding" will be our next 2 big epidemics! Thanks for your interest in my foundation. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to:

The Robert James Frascino AIDS Foundation 779 Altos Oaks Drive, Suite 200 Los Altos, CA 94024

Stay well and many thanks.

Dr. Bob