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HIV Antibody and P24 Antigen Screening and Confirmatory Panel (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test checks for HIV antibodies and the HIV p24 antigen in your blood to help determine if you have been exposed to the virus.

Quick summary

["Early detection of HIV infection is crucial for managing your health effectively."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
83101-6
Short code
HIV 1+2 Ab + HIV 1 p24 Pnl SerPl IA
Synonyms
HIV 1+2 Ab + HIV 1 p24 Pnl SerPl IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 Does This Test Measure?

The test includes two key components: HIV antibodies (detected via immunoassay) and HIV p24 antigen (detected via immunoassay). Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to HIV infection. The p24 antigen is a protein found inside HIV particles. Together, these markers help identify whether you have been infected with HIV.

Why Is This Test Important?

Screening for HIV antibodies and p24 antigen helps confirm infection early, allowing for timely medical intervention. This can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum or plasma is then tested using immunoassay methods to detect HIV antibodies and p24 antigen.

What Are the Next Steps?

If the test results are positive, further confirmatory testing will be arranged to ensure accuracy. If negative, additional testing may be recommended depending on your risk factors and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: HIV Antibody and P24 Antigen Testing

Short name

HIV Test Panel

Frequently asked questions

How soon after exposure can this test detect HIV?
HIV antibodies typically appear within 2 to 8 weeks after exposure, but the p24 antigen may be detectable slightly earlier—sometimes within 2 to 4 weeks. However, results can vary, and false negatives are possible in the early stages of infection. Your healthcare provider will guide you on follow-up testing based on your timeline of exposure.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates that you likely have HIV. This means you should seek medical evaluation immediately to begin treatment and manage your health. Confirmatory testing will be done to confirm the diagnosis and ensure accurate results.
Can this test be used to diagnose HIV in someone who has been recently exposed?
Yes, this test is commonly used in the context of recent exposure (e.g., after potential sexual contact, needle stick, or sharing needles). Early testing is critical, and your healthcare provider will determine the best timing for follow-up tests based on your exposure risk and symptoms.
  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