HIV 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 may have been exposed to HIV, even if you haven’t yet shown symptoms.
["This screening test is critical for early detection and management of HIV infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16132-3
- Short code
- HIV1 p15+p18 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 p15+p18 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 Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sexual contact, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure. It’s also part of routine testing for certain groups, like pregnant individuals or those with sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HIV, suggesting past or current infection. However, false positives can occur, so follow-up testing (like a confirmatory HIV antibody test) is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Always discuss results with your doctor for guidance.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means your blood did not detect antibodies to HIV at this time. However, HIV can take weeks to months to develop detectable antibodies. If you suspect exposure, retest after 3 months or consult your doctor for further evaluation.
What Happens During the Test?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for testing. The process takes about 10–15 minutes, and results are typically available within 1–3 days.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Early detection of HIV is crucial because it allows for timely treatment to manage the infection, reduce complications, and improve long-term health outcomes. Untreated HIV can weaken your immune system over time, increasing the risk of infections and diseases. Regular testing is key to staying healthy and informed about your health status.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
How soon after exposure can I get tested?
What if my test is positive? What’s next?
Can I still have sex or share needles if my test is positive?
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