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HIV Antibody Screening Test (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 is critical for early detection of HIV infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31072-2
Short code
HIV1 p41 Ab Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
HIV1 p41 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 measures HIV antibodies in your blood or plasma. Antibodies are proteins your immune system creates to fight infections. If you have been exposed to HIV, your body may produce these antibodies within weeks to months after exposure.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing using an immunoassay method, which detects the presence of HIV antibodies.

This test is part of routine screening for HIV, especially recommended for individuals at higher risk of infection, such as those with multiple sexual partners, intravenous drug use history, or exposure to infected blood.

Early detection allows for prompt medical intervention, which can help manage the virus and improve health outcomes.

The test result is either positive (indicating possible HIV infection) or negative (no detectable antibodies). A positive result requires confirmation with another test.

A negative result means no HIV antibodies were found in this sample, but it does not guarantee you are not infected. If you suspect exposure, retesting may be advised.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive HIV antibody screen is not definitive and typically requires follow-up testing (confirmatory test) to confirm HIV infection. If confirmed, early treatment can slow disease progression and improve quality of life. This test is crucial for public health efforts to reduce HIV transmission.

Short name

HIV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

How soon after exposure can I get a positive result?
HIV antibodies may take weeks to months to develop after exposure. Some people may test negative early after exposure but can still be infected. If you suspect exposure, consult your healthcare provider about timing for testing and retesting.
What if my test result is positive?
A positive result means your blood test detected HIV antibodies, but it does not confirm infection. You will likely need a confirmatory test (e.g., Western blot or nucleic acid test) to determine if you have HIV. Your healthcare provider will guide you through next steps, including counseling and treatment options.
Can I still get HIV if my antibody test is negative?
A negative antibody test means no HIV antibodies were found in this sample, but it does not guarantee you are not infected. HIV can sometimes take time to produce detectable antibodies. If you have been exposed, discuss retesting with your healthcare provider to ensure safety and early detection.
  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