Does a CBC (complete blood count) test check for HIV?

[Descartes]

i.e. Do I have to now specifically get an HIV test to be "official?" I've never had an HIV test, but I recently had a CBC for other reasons, and my new friend wants the "official" confirmation

Thanks

 

[Amused]

<< i.e. Do I have to now specifically get an HIV test to be "official?" I've never had an HIV test, but I recently had a CBC for other reasons, and my new friend wants the "official" confirmation

Thanks >>



No, it does not test for HIV specifically. It will show tell-tale signs if you are infected, though. Namely a low T-Cell count.

 

[Descartes]

<< No, it does not test for HIV specifically. It will show tell-tale signs if you are infected, though. Namely a low T-Cell count. >>



That's what I figured, but my doc said everything looked good. Fair to say all is well, or should I go get a specific test?

 

[Gulzakar]

depends...it could take years for things to develop...

 

[Descartes]

<< depends...it could take years for things to develop... >>



Before you start showing symptoms perhaps, but they can test for it early. I have nothing to be concerned about, I just need that "seal of approval", so I was hoping the CBC would give me that instead of having to take another test.

 

[luv2chill]

Just go give blood at your nearest Red Cross. You'll be helping out your fellow man, and they'll tell you your HIV status and cholesterol level to boot!

l2c

 

[StageLeft]

Perhaps a low t-cell would only be if you had AIDs and not HIV. Perhaps you should ask your doctor - or as luv2 said get a free blood donation done.

 

[CJZ]

That's what I figured, but my doc said everything looked good. Fair to say all is well, or should I go get a specific test?

If your "new friend" wants an official HIV test result, get your "new friend" an official test result. There are home test kits available but I'd recommend that you go ask your doctor for the test (there are also low cost test centers around).

 

[heartsurgeon]

<< No, it does not test for HIV specifically. It will show tell-tale signs if you are infected, though. Namely a low T-Cell count. >>



this is totally wrong wrong wrong!

a cbc doesn't tell you a t-cell count. thats just plain wrong. it tells you your hemoglobin level, your platlet level, and your white blood cell count. if you get a cbc with a differential count, it can also tell you your lymphocyte count, but that is not the same a t-cell count.

the only way to tell is with an HIV test.

anybody trying to tell you that HIV can be diagnosed by a cbc is just plain dangerous, and wrong.