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Reversal Of Positive Serology For Human Immunodeficiency Virus (hiv); Observation Of Two Cases

Perrin et al., 1988Other/Unknown

Schweizerische Medizinische Wochenschrift 118(45): Nov 12 1988; 1641-1644

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Abstract

The medical history and laboratory data of two persons who have been in contact with HIV-I positive carrier individuals are reported. The serologic data of successive serum samples collected from these persons were first negative, then positive (including antibodies directed against Gag and Env gene products), and finally negative for presence of anti-HIV-I antibod-ies. Physical examination and other laboratory data, including absolute number of CD4 lymphocytes/mm3, were within the normal range in these two individuals, who presented a reversal of positive serology for HIV-I.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

The blood donor was a 57- year-old single nurse in good health WHO stated she had never had a sexual relationship. Her medical history revealed that she took frequent care of an aids patient for a period of one month.

Clinical Characteristics

Physical examination and other laboratory data, including absolute number of CD4 lymphocytes/mm3, were within the normal range. Clinical examination of the nurse was unremarkable.

Remission Characteristics

The serologic data of successive serum samples collected from these persons were first negative, then positive (including antibodies directed against gag and env gene products), and finally negative for presence of anti-HIV-i antibod-ies.

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Not discussed

Additional Notes

This occurred three months before her blood donation and detection of the anti-HIV-1 antibodies. It was believed that the nurse had not ever been stuck with needles that were contaminated by the blood of the AIDS patient. Moreover, the nurse did not take particular precautions (gloves) and stated to have had frequent superficial lesions of mechanical origin in both of her hands.