HIV-1 Antibody Screening and Confirmation 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 have been exposed to HIV.
["This test screens for HIV infection, which can be critical for early treatment and management."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12870-2
- Short code
- HIV1 gp34 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 gp34 Ab Ser 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
Doctors may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sex, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure. It’s also part of routine testing for certain groups, like people with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or those with frequent medical check-ups.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample (serum or plasma) to check for antibodies against HIV. If your body has been exposed to the virus, these antibodies will be present. The test is first screened (qualitative) and then confirmed to ensure accuracy.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, usually by a healthcare provider. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This process is quick and typically done in a lab.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a mild bruise or soreness at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
If the test is positive, it means you have HIV antibodies, indicating past or current infection. Further testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the virus’s stage. Early detection allows for timely treatment to manage symptoms and improve long-term health.
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HIV, suggesting you may have been infected at some point. This does not confirm active infection without additional testing, so your doctor will guide next steps, such as confirmatory tests or viral load checks.
Yes, it’s possible. HIV antibodies may take weeks to develop after exposure. If you suspect exposure, ask your doctor about retesting after 3–6 months or using a different testing method, such as a viral load test.
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