HIV Antibody Screening Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which your body produces in response to infection. It helps determine if you have been exposed to HIV.
["This screening identifies potential HIV infection early for timely medical evaluation and care."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11080-9
- Short code
- HIV2 p53 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV2 p53 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 This Test Measures
The test looks for specific antibodies in your blood or plasma that may indicate past or current HIV exposure. These antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to the virus. The presence of these antibodies suggests your body has encountered HIV, though they may not appear immediately after infection.
How the Test Works
This test uses an immunoassay method to detect HIV antibodies. A small blood sample is drawn, and the sample is analyzed in a lab to identify the presence of these antibodies. The result helps determine if further testing (such as confirmation) is needed.
Why It’s Done
HIV antibody screening is typically performed as part of routine health check-ups, especially for high-risk individuals (e.g., those with multiple sexual partners, intravenous drug use history, or exposure to HIV). It may also be recommended if you have symptoms suggestive of HIV, such as unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue, or if you’ve had unprotected sex with someone whose HIV status is unknown.
Preparation and Process
No special preparation is needed for this test. A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. Results are usually available within a few days, though timing may vary by lab.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
If your HIV antibody screen is positive, further confirmatory testing is required to ensure accuracy. A positive result means you may have HIV, and immediate medical evaluation is critical to begin treatment and manage your health. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve long-term outcomes. A negative result means you are not currently infected with HIV, but you should still practice safe sex and other preventive measures if at risk.
Results from an HIV antibody screening test are typically available within 2 to 5 business days, depending on the lab’s processing time. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results, so keep their contact information handy.
A positive HIV antibody screen result indicates that your body has detected antibodies to HIV, which may mean you have been infected. This result requires further confirmatory testing to confirm the diagnosis. You should seek medical attention immediately to discuss next steps, including testing and treatment options.
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