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HIV-1 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 the virus. It helps determine if you have been exposed to HIV.

Quick summary

["This screening test is the first step in checking for HIV infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12875-1
Short code
HIV1 p64 Ab Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
HIV1 p64 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 HIV-1 Antibody Screening Test uses an immunoassay method to identify antibodies against HIV-1. When you have been infected with HIV, your immune system produces antibodies to fight the virus. The test looks for these antibodies in your blood or plasma sample.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, or a fingerstick for a small sample. If you’re taking blood from a vein, you might feel a brief pinch or slight discomfort, but it usually doesn’t last long.

What to Expect During the Test

The test itself is quick and typically takes a few minutes. Your healthcare provider will take a small blood sample and send it to a lab for analysis. The lab will use an immunoassay to detect HIV antibodies.

What to Expect After the Test

After the test, you may experience mild bruising, swelling, or soreness at the injection site, which usually goes away within a few days. You can return to your normal activities immediately.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result on this screening test means your body has detected HIV antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. However, a positive result does not confirm HIV infection definitively. Follow-up testing, such as a confirmatory HIV antibody test, is required to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection is crucial for managing HIV and improving health outcomes.

Short name

HIV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

Why was I asked to take this test?
You may have been asked for this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure risk. It’s also recommended for regular check-ups, especially if you’re in a high-risk group or have symptoms that might suggest infection.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result on this screening test means your body has antibodies to HIV, which could indicate past exposure. However, this test alone cannot confirm HIV infection. You’ll need further testing, like a confirmatory HIV antibody test, to get an accurate diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will guide you on next steps.
How soon can I expect results?
Results from this screening test are usually available within 24 to 72 hours. However, the timing can vary depending on your healthcare facility’s lab processes. Your provider will contact you with the results once they are ready.
  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