Since 1995 - Non Profit Healthcare Advice

HTLV Indeterminate With P24 Reactive.

06/21/2006

Question:

I donated blood a few years ago and got a response back from the blood bank that my blood had tested positive for HTLV I/II antibodies, but subsequent supplemental tests came out negative. I discussed this with my doctor and decided to go for the HTML Western Blot test to test for HTLV antigens. The test came back as indeterminate. All antigens, except P24, were non-reactive. Now, I`ve had the ELISA test for HIV and it`s been negative. I also understand that HTLV and HIV share the p24 antigen.

I am originally from India (born and raised there) and I believe that HTLV is endemic there. Do I have a reason to be worried?

Answer:

There is no reason to be concerned about an indeterminate test for HTLV I/II and any overlap with testing for HIV.

For more information:

Go to the HIV and AIDS health topic.