HIV Antibody and P24 Antigen Screening and Confirmation Panel (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for HIV antibodies and the HIV p24 antigen in your blood to help detect the virus that causes AIDS. Early detection is important for managing your health.
This test helps determine if you have HIV, the virus that can lead to AIDS, by detecting specific markers in your blood.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108720-4
- Short code
- HIV 1+2 Ab+HIV1 p24 Ag Msmt SerPl
- Synonyms
- HIV 1+2 Ab+HIV1 p24 Ag Msmt SerPl
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test includes two key components: HIV antibodies and the HIV p24 antigen. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to the HIV virus. The p24 antigen is a protein fragment found in the virus itself. Together, they help identify whether HIV is present in your bloodstream.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample drawn from your vein. The sample is processed to detect HIV antibodies and p24 antigen through immunoassay methods, which identify specific proteins or fragments in your blood. This process is designed to be highly sensitive and accurate.
Why It’s Done
Healthcare providers may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sex, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure. It may also be part of routine testing for certain groups, like those with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or those who are pregnant.
Preparation and Process
No special preparation is needed for this test. A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days, depending on the lab’s processing time.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detecting HIV early is crucial because it allows for prompt treatment and management. Early diagnosis can help prevent disease progression, reduce transmission risks, and improve overall health outcomes. This test is part of a broader approach to HIV prevention, screening, and care, helping to monitor and control the virus effectively.
Short name
HIV Test Panel
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get my results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I still have sex if my test is positive?
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