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HIV-1 gp140 Antibody Screening (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects antibodies to the HIV-1 glycoprotein 140 (gp140), a protein found on the surface of the virus. It helps screen for past or current HIV infection by identifying the body’s immune response.

Quick summary

["This screening helps determine if you may have been exposed to HIV."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57976-3
Short code
HIV 2 gp140 Ab Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
HIV 2 gp140 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 looks for antibodies specific to the HIV-1 gp140 protein, which the immune system produces in response to infection. These antibodies are part of the body’s defense mechanism against the virus.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this screening if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sexual contact, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure risk. It may also be part of routine testing for certain groups, like sexually active adults or those with sexually transmitted infections.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood after clotting) is then tested using an immunoassay method to detect gp140 antibodies.

What Are the Next Steps?

If the test result is positive, further confirmatory testing (such as a gp140 antibody confirmatory assay) will be needed to confirm HIV infection. If negative, it means no detectable antibodies were found at this time, but you should still practice safe behaviors and discuss ongoing monitoring with your provider.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result suggests possible HIV infection and warrants additional testing to confirm diagnosis. A negative result means no antibodies were detected in this sample, but HIV can still be present if exposure occurred recently. Follow-up testing or counseling may be recommended based on your risk factors and medical history. Early detection is crucial for managing HIV effectively.

Short name

HIV-1 gp140 Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates that antibodies to HIV-1 gp140 were found in your blood. This may mean you have been infected with HIV, but further testing is needed to confirm. Your healthcare provider will guide you on next steps, which may include additional tests or counseling.
What if my test is negative but I still feel unwell?
A negative result means no antibodies were detected in this sample. However, HIV can sometimes take weeks or months to produce detectable antibodies. If you suspect exposure or have symptoms, discuss with your provider about retesting or other diagnostic options. Symptoms like fatigue or flu-like illness could also indicate other conditions.
How soon after exposure might I get a positive result?
Antibodies may take several weeks to develop after HIV exposure. Some people may not test positive until weeks or even months later. If you suspect recent exposure, ask your provider about timing for retesting or other diagnostic tests, such as PCR or viral load testing, which can detect HIV earlier than antibody tests.
  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