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HIV Antibody Test (Screening) – Serum/Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

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.

Quick summary

["This screening test checks for HIV antibodies, which may indicate past or current infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57975-5
Short code
HIV 1+O+2 Ab Fld Ql
Synonyms
HIV 1+O+2 Ab Fld 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. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes when it encounters HIV. If present, they suggest exposure to the virus, though results alone do not confirm active infection.

How the Test Works

Your sample is analyzed using an immunoassay method (likely immunofluorescent assay or chemiluminescent immunoassay). This detects specific antibodies against HIV proteins, helping identify potential exposure.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from your arm, and the serum or plasma is separated for testing. This test is typically performed on fresh or stored blood samples.

When You Might Need This Test

You may receive this test if you have risk factors for HIV (e.g., unprotected sex, shared needles, or exposure to infected blood), during routine check-ups, or as part of pre-surgery screening.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

HIV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

Positive results warrant further testing (e.g., confirmatory HIV antibody detection or viral load testing) to confirm HIV infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies at the time of testing, but HIV can still be present if infection occurred recently.
This test cannot diagnose HIV immediately after exposure because antibodies may take weeks to develop. Follow-up testing is essential if you suspect recent exposure.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of HIV antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. Your healthcare provider will guide next steps, such as confirmatory testing or counseling.
Can this test detect HIV at an early stage?
No, this screening test does not detect HIV directly. Antibodies take time to develop, so early infections may not show up. If you suspect exposure, discuss timing with your provider for additional testing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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