HIV-1 gp40 Antibody Screening and Confirmation (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the gp40 protein of HIV-1, a key part of the virus’s outer envelope. It helps screen for and confirm HIV infection by identifying the body’s immune response to the virus.
["This test helps determine if you may have been exposed to HIV."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35452-2
- Short code
- HIV1 gp40 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 gp40 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
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of HIV infection (e.g., fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes), have risk factors for HIV (e.g., unprotected sex, shared needles), or are part of a routine screening program. It may also be used in follow-up testing after exposure to the virus.
How the Test Works
The test uses an immunoassay method to detect antibodies specific to the gp40 protein of HIV-1. Blood is drawn from a vein, and the serum or plasma is analyzed to check for these antibodies. Results are interpreted by a healthcare provider.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have some discomfort from the needle, but it usually goes away quickly. If you’re pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications, let your provider know.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will clean the area, insert a small needle into your arm, and collect blood. The process takes about 5 minutes. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s generally not painful.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate the presence of HIV-1 antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies at the time of testing, but HIV could still be present without antibodies (early infection). Confirmatory testing (e.g., Western blot or another confirmatory assay) may follow to ensure accuracy. Early detection is critical for managing the virus and preventing complications.
Short name
HIV gp40 Antibody
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
What If I Get a Negative Result?
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