HIV-1 Antibody Screening Test (Qualitative) via Saliva
This test checks for antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in your saliva. Antibodies are proteins your body makes in response to the virus.
["A positive result may indicate past or current HIV infection; further testing is needed for confirmation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35443-1
- Short code
- HIV1 p65 Ab Sal Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV1 p65 Ab Sal 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 This Test Measures
The test detects HIV-1 antibodies produced by your immune system after exposure to the virus. These antibodies are present in saliva if your body has encountered HIV, though they may take weeks to months to develop. This is a screening test, not a diagnostic confirmation.
How the Test Works
Your saliva sample is analyzed using an immunoassay method to identify specific antibodies against HIV-1. This method detects the presence of these antibodies without measuring viral load directly.
Why It’s Done
Healthcare providers may order this test to screen for HIV during routine check-ups, high-risk behaviors, or as part of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) evaluation. It helps identify potential exposure early, though further testing is required for diagnosis.
What to Expect
You’ll provide a small saliva sample (like spitting into a cup) at a clinic or lab. The test is quick and painless, often taking 10–30 minutes to complete. Results are typically available within a few days.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen (Saliva)
Frequently asked questions
If your test is positive, it suggests you may have been exposed to HIV, but it does not confirm infection. A follow-up test (like a confirmatory HIV antibody test) is needed to determine if you have active HIV. Early detection is critical for managing the virus and preventing complications.
A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in your saliva sample at this time. However, HIV can take weeks to months to develop antibodies, so repeated testing may be needed if you suspect exposure.
Saliva testing is less common than blood testing for HIV. If you’re concerned about exposure, ask your provider about blood-based tests for more reliable results sooner.
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