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HIV Antibody Screening and Confirmation Test (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which may indicate past or current infection. It is used as part of routine screening and confirmation for HIV.

Quick summary

["HIV antibodies can appear in your blood after infection, helping doctors confirm or rule out HIV status."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11079-1
Short code
HIV2 p26 Ab Ser Ql IB
Synonyms
HIV2 p26 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

Why This Test Is Done

Healthcare providers use this test to screen for HIV as part of routine check-ups, especially if you’re at higher risk. It may also be ordered after exposure to HIV (e.g., after a needle stick or sexual exposure) or during pregnancy to check for infection in you and your baby.

How the Test Works

The test uses an immunoassay method to detect HIV antibodies in your blood or plasma. If antibodies are found, they suggest you’ve been exposed to HIV, though results may take time to develop after infection.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. This is a simple, painless procedure typically done in a doctor’s office or lab.

Test Results and Interpretation

Results are reported as either positive (indicating possible HIV infection) or negative (no detectable antibodies). A positive result requires confirmation with another test to avoid false positives. Follow-up testing may be needed if you’re at risk of exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

HIV Antibody Test

Frequently asked questions

If you receive a positive result, your healthcare provider will discuss next steps, which may include additional testing, counseling, and starting antiretroviral therapy to manage the infection.
A positive HIV antibody test means you may have been infected with HIV, but it doesn’t confirm the virus is actively replicating. Confirmatory testing is required to ensure accuracy.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no HIV antibodies were detected in your sample at the time of testing. However, HIV can take weeks to months to develop antibodies, so repeated testing may be needed if you’re at risk of exposure.
How soon after exposure can I get tested?
HIV antibodies may take 2–12 weeks to appear after exposure. Early testing (within 1–3 months) may yield false negatives, so healthcare providers often recommend waiting before retesting unless symptoms appear sooner.
  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