HIV-1 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 can help identify potential HIV infection early, allowing for timely medical evaluation and care."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 32571-2
- Short code
- HIV1 Ab Ur Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 Ab Ur Ql IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- CPT
- 86701
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test looks for antibodies specific to HIV-1, a type of virus that can weaken your immune system. If your body has been exposed to HIV-1, it may produce these antibodies. This test does not directly detect the virus itself but serves as an initial screening step.
How the Test Works
Your healthcare provider will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is then tested for HIV-1 antibodies using an immunoassay method. This method detects the presence of antibodies that your immune system may have created in response to HIV infection.
Why It Matters for Your Health
Early detection of HIV is crucial. If this test is positive, further confirmatory tests will be needed to ensure accuracy. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment and management, which can help maintain your health and prevent disease progression.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are usually no special preparations needed for this test. You may have some discomfort from the needle stick, but it typically lasts only a few seconds. If you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or are on certain medications, 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
Frequently asked questions
If your test result is positive, additional confirmatory tests will be conducted to verify the result. If negative, it means no detectable antibodies were found at this time, but you should still be tested again if you have risk factors for HIV.
What If I Have Symptoms of HIV?
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