Lack of Detection of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Persistently Seronegative Homosexual Men with High or Medium Risks for Infection

摘要: Some studies have suggested that seronegative homosexual men who practiced high-risk sexual behavior can carry the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in a silent state, detectable only by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or selective viral culture. To assess this concept, blood specimens were studied from 59 with recognized risk behaviors: unprotected anal receptive intercourse at least once and many lifetime sex partners. After extensive virologic PCR analysis, one virus-positive, antibody-negative individual was identified. These findings indicate HIV individuals are rare.