Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Antibody Screening by Immunoassay (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.
["Screening for HIV antibodies to assess potential infection risk and guide next steps in care."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49606-7
- Short code
- HBV DNA Tiss NAA+probe-Log IU
- Synonyms
- HBV DNA Tiss NAA+probe-Log IU
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to HIV. If you’ve been exposed to the virus, your body may create these antibodies within weeks to months. This screening does not directly detect the virus itself but serves as an early indicator of exposure.
How the Test Works
Your blood or plasma sample is analyzed using an immunoassay method, which detects specific antibodies against HIV proteins. The result helps determine if further testing (like confirmation) is needed.
Why It’s Done
Healthcare providers use this test to screen for HIV in asymptomatic individuals, during routine check-ups, or after potential exposure (e.g., accident, sexual contact). Early detection allows for prompt treatment and support.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted to draw blood from a vein in your arm. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can offer comfort measures.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in HIV prevention and care by identifying early exposure. While a positive screen triggers further testing, a negative result means no antibodies were detected at that time. It’s not a definitive diagnosis but an important step in assessing risk and next actions.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a positive or negative result mean?
How often should I get this test?
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