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HIV Referral Note (Qualitative HIV Antibody Screening)

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

This test checks for antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which your body makes in response to infection. It helps determine if you should be tested further for HIV.

Quick summary

["This screening helps identify potential HIV exposure for additional evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86664-0
Short code
HIV Referral note
Synonyms
HIV Referral note
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
hiv
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 Does

The HIV antibody test detects proteins (antibodies) your immune system produces after exposure to HIV. Even if you have early HIV, these antibodies may appear within weeks to months after infection. This test is not used to diagnose HIV directly but to guide further testing if needed.

How the Test Works

Your blood sample is tested using an immunoassay method (often a rapid or enzyme-based test) to detect HIV antibodies. Results are qualitative—meaning they only indicate whether antibodies are present or not.

When You Might Need This Test

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sex, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure. It may also be part of routine screening in certain settings.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small blood sample drawn from your arm, similar to other blood tests. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually over quickly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HIV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

If antibodies are found, further testing (like a confirmatory HIV test) will be needed to confirm HIV infection. A positive screening result does not mean you have HIV immediately—it may take time for antibodies to develop.
This test is not a diagnosis. A positive result means you should discuss next steps with your doctor, who may order additional tests to confirm or rule out HIV infection.
What does a positive screening result mean?
A positive screening result means your blood test detected HIV antibodies, which suggests you may have been exposed to HIV. Your doctor will perform additional tests to confirm if you have HIV infection.
How soon can I get results?
Results are typically available within hours to a few days, depending on the lab. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and guide next steps, such as further testing if needed.
  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