HIV-1 Antibody Screening 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 may have been exposed to HIV.
["This screening test is the first step in checking for HIV infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 9663-6
- Short code
- HIV1 p17 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 p17 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
What Does This Test Measure?
The test looks for specific antibodies in your blood or plasma that your immune system makes when it encounters HIV. These antibodies are a sign that your body has been exposed to the virus, though they may not appear immediately after exposure.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing.
Why Might You Need This Test?
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 risk. It can also be part of routine testing, especially if you are pregnant, have a sexually transmitted infection, or are part of a high-risk group.
What Are the Next Steps If the Test Is Positive?
If the screening test is positive, your healthcare provider will likely perform a confirmatory test (such as a Western Blot or an HIV-1 p24 antigen test) to confirm the result. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing HIV effectively.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Early detection of HIV is vital because it allows for timely medical intervention. Untreated HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and other serious health complications. Regular screening can help identify infections early, improving outcomes and quality of life.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive screening result mean?
How soon after exposure can I get tested?
Can I still have HIV if my screening test is negative?
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