Can HIV or Hepatitis surface after years?

[Guderian]

I had protected anal sex with a man (receiving) back in 2004, and had several protected encounters with sex workers. I had a comprehensive range of STI tests in 2009 (blood, swabs, etc) and a further run of tests in 2012 (although this round might not have included bloods).

All these tests came up negative for everything. However a few months ago in 2024 I had a blood test that showed borderline low levels of neutrofils. I’m now scared that this could be a result of HIV or Hepatitis infection that evaded detection and has only emerged now. Is my fear unfounded?

[auntiejessi]

No, if you tested negative, that means you don't have it. While symptoms can appear years later, that only happens if you have it.

The testing you had done was likely antibody testing. If you don't have antibodies, you don't have the infection.

Also, you had protected anal sex. There is no risk for HIV or any hep virus with this (or most other STDs).

Loads of things can cause low neutrophils. You'll need to work with your doctor to find out the cause of yours. Depending on how low they are, it may not even be cause for concern, but that's something you can talk to your doctor about.

[Guderian]

With routine blood tests, would HIV or Hep antibodies be tested for?

[auntiejessi]

That depends on the doctor. Some docs order them as part of check ups, others don't.

You had no risk from the encounter you describe. If you've had other possible exposures, you can just test and put your mind at ease. Ask your doctor or go to a clinic. It's really easy. :)