HIV-1 Antibody Confirmatory Test (Qualitative)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) to confirm infection after an initial screening test. It helps determine if you have been exposed to HIV.
["This test confirms HIV infection by checking for antibodies your immune system produces after exposure."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 41145-4
- Short code
- HIV1 Ab BldC Ql
- Synonyms
- HIV1 Ab BldC Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86701
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you had a positive screening result for HIV antibodies, have symptoms that could suggest HIV (such as fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes), or if you’re at higher risk for HIV (e.g., unprotected sex, shared needles, or living with someone who has HIV). It’s also used in follow-up testing after initial screening.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample to detect HIV-1 antibodies through an immunoassay method. If antibodies are present, they bind to specific markers in the test, triggering a detectable reaction. This confirms whether HIV is currently active in your body.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then tested. This process typically takes a few minutes, and the results are ready within hours or the next day.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight bruise or soreness at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly. Avoid alcohol before the test to prevent potential interference with results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result means you have HIV antibodies, indicating past or current infection. This does not mean you have AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome), which is determined by your CD4 cell count and viral load. Early detection is crucial for managing the infection and preventing complications. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, suggesting you are not currently infected with HIV.
Short name
HIV Antibody Confirmatory
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
What If My Screening Test Was Positive but This Test Is Negative?
How Often Should I Get Tested?
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