HIV Antibody Test (Qualitative, Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which your body produces in response to infection. It helps determine if you have been exposed to HIV.
["This screening test checks for HIV antibodies to help identify possible infection early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108679-2
- Short code
- HIV1 Ab Msmt SerPlBld
- Synonyms
- HIV1 Ab Msmt SerPlBld
- 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 This Test Measures
The test looks for HIV antibodies in your blood or plasma. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes to fight infections. If HIV is present in your system, your body may produce antibodies against it. This test does not directly measure HIV virus levels but indicates past or current exposure.
Why It’s Done
Healthcare providers use this test to screen for HIV infection, especially during routine check-ups, sexually transmitted infection (STI) evaluations, or after potential exposure (e.g., needle stick, unprotected sex). It is also used as part of routine testing in certain populations.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then tested for HIV antibodies. The method typically involves immunoassay techniques to detect these antibodies with high sensitivity.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have some discomfort from the needle stick, but it usually goes away quickly. If you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or are on blood-thinning medication, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HIV, suggesting you may have been infected. However, false positives can occur, so follow-up testing is often recommended. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing, but HIV could still be present if you were infected recently.
How soon after exposure can this test detect HIV antibodies? HIV antibodies typically appear within 2 to 12 weeks after exposure, but some people may not develop detectable antibodies for up to 3 months.
Can this test detect acute HIV infection (early stages)? This screening test may not detect acute HIV infection immediately after exposure because antibodies take time to develop. Acute HIV testing may require different tests or timing.
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