HIV Antibody Screening and Confirmation Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which your body makes in response to infection. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HIV.
["HIV antibodies may appear within weeks to months after exposure, helping identify potential infection early."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21339-7
- Short code
- HIV2 p55 Ab Ser Ql IB
- Synonyms
- HIV2 p55 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 HIV antibodies in your blood or plasma. These antibodies are proteins your immune system produces when it encounters HIV. The presence of these antibodies suggests past or current infection, though results can vary based on when testing occurs after exposure.
How the Test Works
This test uses an immunoassay method to detect HIV antibodies. A small blood sample is taken, and the lab analyzes it to identify specific markers linked to HIV infection. Some tests may also include a screening phase followed by confirmation to ensure accuracy.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test if you have risk factors for HIV (e.g., unprotected sex, shared needles, or exposure to infected blood), symptoms of infection, or if you’re part of a group at higher risk. It’s also used as part of routine testing in certain settings (e.g., prenatal care).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking or recent illnesses. Avoid alcohol before the blood draw if possible, as it may affect blood flow.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into your arm to draw a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes just a few minutes. You can sit or lie down comfortably during the draw.
A positive result means your test detected HIV antibodies, indicating a high likelihood of current or past HIV infection. A negative result means no antibodies were found, but this doesn’t guarantee you’re not infected—results can take time to develop after exposure. Follow-up testing may be recommended if you suspect exposure.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
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