HIV-1 Antibody Test (Qualitative) – Antibody to HIV-1 gp160
This test detects antibodies to a specific protein (gp160) found in the HIV-1 virus, helping determine if your body has developed an immune response to HIV infection.
["A positive result suggests possible exposure to HIV, but further testing is needed for confirmation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35440-7
- Short code
- HIV1 gp160 Ab Sal Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 gp160 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
What This Test Measures
The test identifies antibodies against the gp160 protein of HIV-1, a key structural protein in the virus. These antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to infection. The presence of these antibodies indicates exposure to HIV, though they may take weeks to months to develop after infection.
How the Test Works
This is a qualitative immunoassay (IA) test performed on serum or plasma. It detects antibodies bound to the HIV-1 gp160 protein using a labeled detection system, typically resulting in a visual or electronic signal indicating a positive or negative result.
Why It’s Ordered
Doctors may order this test as part of routine screening, during pregnancy, for sexually transmitted infection evaluation, or after potential exposure to HIV. It is often used as an initial screening step before confirmatory testing.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your healthcare provider before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result means your immune system has detected HIV-1 gp160 antibodies, which may indicate past or recent infection. However, a negative result does not definitively rule out HIV. False negatives can occur if infection is very recent or if the test was taken too early. Always follow up with additional testing for confirmation.
Short name
HIV-1 gp160 Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get this test at home?
How soon after exposure can I get a positive 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