HIV-1 Antibody Screening Test (Qualitative) with Serum
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.
["This screening test is the first step in checking for HIV infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35449-8
- Short code
- HIV1 p17 Ab Sal Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 p17 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 looks for HIV-1 antibodies in your serum. These antibodies are proteins your immune system creates after exposure to HIV. If present, they suggest past or current infection. This test is not meant to diagnose HIV immediately but is used as an initial screening step.
How the Test Works
Your serum sample is analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect HIV-1 antibodies. If antibodies are found, it indicates potential exposure, prompting further testing for confirmation.
Why It’s Done
Healthcare providers may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sex, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure risk. It’s also part of routine screening for certain groups.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm. Tell your provider if you’re on blood-thinning medication or have a history of bleeding issues.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
A positive result means further testing is needed to confirm HIV infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time, but HIV could still be present if you’ve been recently exposed. Follow-up testing is essential for accurate diagnosis.
A positive result suggests you may have been exposed to HIV, but it does not confirm the infection. You’ll need additional tests, such as a confirmatory HIV antibody test or viral load test, to determine if you have HIV.
While rare, false results can occur due to recent exposure, medical conditions, or previous vaccinations. If your result is negative but you suspect exposure, repeat testing is recommended.
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