HIV-1 Antibody Screening Test (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
- 9666-9
- Short code
- HIV1 p31 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 p31 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
How the Test Works
Your healthcare provider will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab where it is tested for HIV antibodies using an immunoassay method. This test cannot detect HIV directly but identifies if your immune system has responded to the virus.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, but this usually goes away quickly. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a bleeding disorder, let your doctor know before the test.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood is drawn, you can return to your normal activities immediately. You may experience some lightheadedness or dizziness for a short time, but this is rare. Apply gentle pressure to the injection site to stop any bleeding.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains HIV antibodies, suggesting you may have been infected. A negative result means the test did not detect antibodies, but it does not guarantee you are not infected. False negatives can occur in the early stages of infection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Early detection of HIV is crucial for managing the infection and preventing complications. This screening test is part of routine care for individuals at higher risk of HIV, such as those with multiple sexual partners, those who share needles, or those with sexually transmitted infections. It is also recommended for everyone as part of regular health check-ups.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get false results?
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