If an HIV-Infected Patient Has an Initial Negative Antibody Assay

question 16

Multiple Choice

If an HIV-infected patient has an initial negative antibody assay for HIV but demonstrates a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) result 10 days later,what is the most likely cause?

• A) A false-negative result was caused by a technical error.
• B) The antibody titer was too low to be detected by the original antibody assay.
• C) The patient was in the window phase of the infection.
• D) Both b and c

---

Definitions:

Regulation of Transcription

The process of controlling the rate and manner in which genetic information is transcribed from DNA to mRNA, influencing gene expression.

mRNA Processing

A series of modifications made to mRNA molecules following transcription, including splicing, capping, and polyadenylation, which prepare mRNA for translation.

Chromatin

A complex of DNA and protein found in the nucleus of cells, which condenses to form chromosomes during cell division.

Promoter

A region of DNA that initiates transcription of a particular gene, acting as a binding site for RNA polymerase.