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Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Antibody Screening Test (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects antibodies to HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, in your blood. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus, even if you’re not yet showing symptoms.

Quick summary

["This screening test can identify HIV exposure early, supporting timely medical evaluation and care."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
51866-2
Short code
Deprecated HIV 1 Ab+Ag Ser Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated HIV 1 Ab+Ag Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86701
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sex, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure risk. It’s also part of routine testing for certain groups (e.g., pregnant individuals, people with sexually transmitted infections).

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a lab. The serum (liquid part of blood) is tested for HIV antibodies using an immunoassay method, which detects the presence of these proteins if you’ve been infected.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. Wear comfortable clothing, and let your provider know about any medications you’re taking or conditions you have. Avoid alcohol before testing if instructed.

What to Expect During the Test

A healthcare professional will clean your arm, insert a small needle to draw blood, and apply pressure afterward to stop bleeding. The process usually takes a few minutes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HIV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive Test Mean?
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HIV, which may indicate past or current infection. You’ll need further testing to confirm the diagnosis and begin appropriate care.
Can I Still Have HIV If My Test Is Negative?
A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this test. However, HIV can be present if you were infected recently (before your body produced detectable antibodies). Follow-up testing may be recommended to check for active infection.
How Often Should I Get Tested?
The frequency depends on your risk factors. The CDC recommends testing at least once every 6 months if you have ongoing risk behaviors (e.g., unprotected sex, shared needles). Your provider will tailor recommendations based on your personal health and lifestyle.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy