HIV-1 Antibody Screening Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which your body produces in response to the virus. It helps determine if you may have been exposed to HIV.
["This screening test is the first step in checking for HIV infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35439-9
- Short code
- HIV1 Ab Sal Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 Ab Sal Ql IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- 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
Healthcare providers use this test to screen for HIV, especially in people who may be at higher risk of infection. It can also be part of routine testing for certain groups, such as sexually active adults, people with multiple sexual partners, or those with known exposure to HIV.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, or sometimes a small amount of blood may be collected from your finger. The process usually takes a few minutes.
How the Test Works
The test uses an immunoassay method to detect HIV antibodies in your blood or plasma. If HIV antibodies are present, they bind to virus particles or probes in the test, triggering a reaction that can be measured and identified.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HIV, suggesting you may have been infected. A negative result means no antibodies were detected, but it does not guarantee you are not infected. Follow-up testing may be needed for confirmation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Early detection of HIV is crucial for managing the infection and preventing complications. This test helps identify potential infections quickly, allowing for timely medical intervention, treatment, and support.
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I still get HIV if I have a negative test result?
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