HIV-1 Antibody Screening Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which can indicate past or current infection. It is used as part of routine screening to check for HIV exposure.
["A simple blood test to screen for HIV antibodies, helping identify potential infection early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12876-9
- Short code
- HIV1 p53 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 p53 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
The test uses an immunoassay method to detect HIV-1 antibodies in your blood. When your immune system encounters HIV, it produces antibodies to fight the virus. These antibodies can be detected in your blood and are the focus of this screening test. The test checks for the presence of these antibodies to determine if you may have been exposed to HIV.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw a blood sample. The process is quick and typically causes only minor discomfort. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood is drawn, the site is usually covered with a bandage. You may experience mild bruising or soreness at the injection site, which usually goes away within a few days. You can return to your normal activities immediately.
Why This Test Matters
Early detection of HIV is crucial for managing the infection effectively. This screening test helps identify potential HIV exposure before symptoms appear, allowing for timely medical intervention and treatment. Early diagnosis can improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of spreading HIV to others.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used as a screening tool to detect HIV antibodies. If the initial screening test is positive, additional confirmatory tests are usually performed to confirm the diagnosis. It is important to note that false positives can occur, so follow-up testing is necessary for accurate results.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
What if I get a negative result?
How often should I get tested?
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