Skip to content

HIV Antibody Screening Test (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in your blood or plasma. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HIV, even if you’re not yet showing symptoms.

Quick summary

["This screening test is critical for early detection of HIV infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7918-6
Short code
HIV1+2 Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
HIV1+2 Ab Ser Ql
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

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 other behaviors that increase exposure. It’s also part of routine testing for certain groups (e.g., sexually active adults, pregnant individuals, or those with sexually transmitted infections).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re nervous, let your provider know—they can offer comfort measures.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means your blood contains HIV antibodies, indicating past or current infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, but HIV could still be present early in infection. Follow-up testing may be needed for confirmation.

What If I Get a Positive Result?

A positive result triggers immediate medical evaluation. Your provider will likely order additional tests (like HIV viral load) to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment. Early treatment can help manage the virus and improve long-term health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HIV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

HIV antibodies can appear in your blood within weeks to months after infection, but some people may test negative early on. This test is a first step in identifying HIV, allowing for timely intervention to prevent progression to AIDS and reduce transmission risk.
This test uses an immunoassay method to detect antibodies against HIV proteins. It’s highly sensitive and specific for screening purposes but not for diagnosing acute HIV infection (where antibodies may not yet be present).
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 24 to 48 hours, but timing depends on your lab’s processes. Your provider will contact you once results are ready.
Can I have false positives or false negatives?
False positives are rare but possible if you have an autoimmune condition or recent exposure to similar proteins. False negatives can occur if tested too early after exposure. Follow-up testing is standard for confirmation.
  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