HIV Antibody Screening and Confirmation (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in your blood or plasma. It helps determine if you have been exposed to HIV.
["This test screens for HIV antibodies to check for past or current infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22357-8
- Short code
- HIV1+2 Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HIV1+2 Ab Ser-aCnc
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to HIV. These antibodies are created when your body encounters the virus. If antibodies are found, it suggests prior exposure to HIV, though they may not always indicate an active infection at the time of testing. This test is typically used as part of a screening process to identify potential HIV exposure.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma for testing. This process is quick and usually causes only minor discomfort.
Why Might You Need This Test?
You may need this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure risk. It may also be recommended as part of routine health check-ups, especially if you are in a high-risk group. Early detection is crucial for managing HIV and preventing complications.
What Are the Next Steps?
If the screening test is positive, your healthcare provider will likely perform a confirmatory test to ensure accuracy. If the screening test is negative but you suspect exposure, additional testing may be advised. Always follow up with your healthcare provider for guidance based on your specific situation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate the presence of HIV antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. While antibodies can appear within weeks to months after exposure, they may not always be detectable immediately. Early detection is vital for initiating treatment, preventing disease progression, and supporting overall health. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing, but this does not definitively rule out HIV. Follow-up testing may be needed if there is ongoing risk of exposure.
Short name
HIV Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How soon can I expect results?
What if my test is positive?
Can I still be infected if my test is negative?
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