HIV IgG/IgM Antibody Screening and Confirmation (Serum)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which your body makes in response to infection. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HIV.
["Screening for HIV antibodies to check for past or current infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43008-2
- Short code
- HIV1+2 IgM Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HIV1+2 IgM 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
- 82784
- 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 order 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., pregnant women, people with sexually transmitted infections).
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample from your vein to detect antibodies against HIV. The first part (screening) looks for general signs of exposure. If positive, a confirmatory test follows to ensure accuracy. Results may take a few days to weeks to process.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but avoid alcohol for 24 hours before your blood draw. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest afterward, as you may feel lightheaded from the needle.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare provider will insert a small needle into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a quick pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The blood is sent to a lab for testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Test (Screen & Confirm)
Frequently asked questions
Positive results indicate the presence of HIV antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies at the time of testing, but HIV can still be present if you’re infected. Follow-up testing may be needed for confirmation or monitoring progression.
If you have symptoms like fatigue, fever, or unexplained weight loss, mention them to your provider—these could signal HIV or other infections. HIV testing is confidential and free in many healthcare settings.
If you test positive, your provider will guide you on next steps, including treatment options, support resources, and how to protect others. Early treatment can help manage the virus and improve your long-term health.
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