False-Reactive 4^th-Generation HIV Tests Are Not Uncommon Among Cancer Patients

Background: 4 th –generation HIV testing uses a combination antibody/antigen (Ab/Ag) assay, which offers greater sensitivity than prior testing; however, false-positive tests may occur, causing mental distress. False-positive testing has been associated with other conditions such as pregnancy or infection with SARS-CoV-2; however, false-positive HIV testing among cancer patients has not been comprehensively studied. Objective: To examine the frequency and associated characteristics of false-reactive 4 th –generation HIV testing among cancer patients. Design: Retrospective review. Methods: The authors reviewed cancer patients at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas, who underwent 4 th –generation HIV testing between March 2016 and January 2023. False reactivity was defined as having a positive 4 th –generation HIV-1/2 Ab/Ag test, but with a negative HIV-1 nucleic acid test or negative HIV-1/2 Ab differentiation immunoassay. Demographics and data on cance more...