HIV Antibody Screening Test (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 is the first step in checking for HIV infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21007-0
- Short code
- HIV1 Ab Ser Donr Ql
- Synonyms
- HIV1 Ab Ser Donr Ql
- 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. These antibodies are proteins your immune system makes after exposure to HIV. If present, they indicate past or current infection. This test is designed to be highly sensitive and is the standard first step in HIV testing.
How the Test Works
Your sample is analyzed using an immunoassay method, which detects the presence of HIV antibodies. The test is qualitative, meaning it provides a yes/no result rather than a specific quantity.
Why It’s Done
HIV antibody screening is recommended for everyone at least once as part of routine health checks, especially if you are at higher risk for HIV (e.g., unprotected sex, shared needles, or living with someone who has HIV). It can also be done if you have symptoms of HIV or have been exposed to the virus.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw, where a small amount of blood is taken from your arm. If you are tested with a urine sample, you may be asked to collect a midstream urine sample. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications or conditions that could affect your test results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in early detection of HIV. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment, which can help manage the virus and improve long-term health outcomes. It is also important for preventing HIV transmission to others. If your test result is positive, further confirmatory testing will be done to confirm the diagnosis.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
What if my test result 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