HIV-1 Antibody and Antigen Combination Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects both HIV antibodies and the virus itself in your blood to help determine if you have an active HIV infection.
["Helps diagnose HIV infection early and guides treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109581-9
- Short code
- HIV 1 pro DNA Msmt Bld
- Synonyms
- HIV 1 pro DNA Msmt Bld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 86701
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
HIV can be present in your body before you develop symptoms. This test combines antibody detection (which appears after initial infection) with antigen detection (which appears shortly after infection). Early detection is key to managing the virus effectively and preventing complications.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically provide a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider if you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders.
How the Test Works
The test uses immunoassay methods to identify HIV antibodies (produced by your immune system after infection) and the virus’s antigen (a protein found in the virus itself). This combination helps confirm HIV presence sooner than antibody-only tests alone.
What the Results Mean
Results may show: (1) Negative (no HIV detected), (2) Positive (HIV antibodies/antigen present), or (3) Indeterminate (requires follow-up testing). Follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential for interpretation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result indicates HIV infection and triggers immediate medical evaluation for treatment options, including antiretroviral therapy (ART). Early diagnosis improves long-term health outcomes and reduces transmission risk. Negative results mean no active HIV infection was detected at the time of testing, but retesting is recommended if symptoms or risk factors persist.
Short name
HIV-1 Antibody/Antigen Test
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What if my first test is negative but I suspect I might have been exposed?
Can I still have HIV if my test is negative?
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