Anti-Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Antibody Screening by Immunofluorescence Assay (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, in your blood or plasma. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
["An HIV antibody test checks for past or recent infection; results don’t confirm active disease without further testing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 80590-3
- Short code
- FLUAV H3 HA gene Nph Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- FLUAV H3 HA gene Nph Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- 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 a history of sexually transmitted infections. It’s also part of routine screening for certain groups (e.g., pregnant women, people with frequent blood tests).
How the Test Works
The test uses a fluorescent antibody method to identify HIV-specific proteins in your blood or plasma. A positive result means your immune system has mounted an antibody response, possibly indicating past exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually from a vein) or plasma (from a tube) at a lab. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing if instructed.
What to Expect After the Test
Results are typically ready within 24–72 hours. You’ll discuss them with your provider, who may order follow-up tests (e.g., HIV viral load) for confirmation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result requires further testing (e.g., Western blot or PCR) to confirm HIV infection. Early detection allows access to treatment, which can slow disease progression. A negative result means no detectable antibodies at the time of testing—re-testing may be needed if you’ve had recent exposure.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen (IFIA)
Frequently asked questions
How soon after exposure should I get tested?
Can I have false-positive or false-negative results?
Does this test show if I have active HIV infection?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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