A member asked:

May i ask what 5% of people will never show positive on oral fluid hiv test? is it 5% with weakened immune systems? or 5% who uses the test incorrectly or is it just chooses randomly 5%? inaccurate or accurate? are chances higher if they buy multiple?

2 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Dr. Hiep Le answered

Specializes in Nephrology and Dialysis

All medical tests have sensitivity and specificity and almost no test has 100% sensitivity or specificity. So 5% negative result in a patient who has the disease means the test has a sensitivity of 95% which is quite good and this sensitivity applies for any one. Of course, if you do the test many times then the repeated negative result will be more accurate by statistics. Take care.

Answered 8/21/2023

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Dr. Hunter Handsfield answered

Specializes in Infectious Disease

You already have asked 3-4 questions about the Oraquick test. It is the only HIV test that remains negative in up to 5% of people with HIV. The things you mention here have no effect; there is no way to predict those in whom the test might remain negative. As already advised, for 100% assurance, you have no choice but to have a lab based blood test. Please stop asking; the answer won't change.

Answered 8/23/2023

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