HIV Antibody Test (Screening) with Qualitative Measurement in Serum
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in your blood serum. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HIV.
["This screening test checks for HIV antibodies, which may indicate past or current infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109978-7
- Short code
- HIV1 Ab Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- HIV1 Ab Msmt Ser
- 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 exposure to HIV through other means. It’s also part of routine testing for certain groups (e.g., pregnant individuals, people with sexually transmitted infections).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The test is quick and typically done in a clinic or lab setting. You may feel a brief pinch, but most people tolerate it well.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The serum portion of your blood is separated and tested for HIV antibodies using an immunoassay method. Results are usually available within 1–3 days.
What the Results Mean
A **positive** result means the test detected HIV antibodies, which strongly suggests you have HIV. A **negative** result means no antibodies were found at this time, but HIV could still be present if you were infected recently. A **negative** result does not guarantee you are not infected. Follow-up testing may be recommended.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
Early detection of HIV is critical. This test helps identify infection quickly, allowing for prompt treatment, management of symptoms, and prevention of disease progression. It also supports linkage to care and support services.
If your test is positive, you’ll need further testing (like a confirmatory assay) to confirm HIV infection. Your healthcare provider will guide you on next steps, including treatment options and support resources.
Can I get false results? Yes, rare false negatives or positives can occur, especially with recent exposure or certain conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
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