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 helps identify potential HIV exposure early for further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47245-6
- Short code
- HIV Rx Form Doc
- Synonyms
- HIV Rx Form Doc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 HIV antibody test looks for specific proteins (antibodies) your immune system makes after exposure to HIV. These antibodies are present in your blood or plasma and can indicate past or recent infection. The test uses an immunoassay method to detect these antibodies.
How the Test Works
Your healthcare provider will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is tested for HIV antibodies. The test is typically performed in a lab using a sensitive immunoassay method to ensure accuracy.
Why It’s Done
HIV antibody screening is often part of routine health checks, especially for high-risk groups (e.g., sexually active individuals, people with multiple sexual partners, or those with sexually transmitted infections). It may also be recommended if you have symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes, or if you’ve had unprotected sex with someone whose HIV status is unknown.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, recent illnesses, or if you’ve had a blood transfusion. Avoid alcohol before the test as it may affect blood flow.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
If the test is positive, further testing (like a confirmatory HIV antibody test or viral load test) will be needed to confirm HIV infection. A positive result means you should seek medical advice immediately for treatment and support. A negative result means you currently do not have detectable HIV antibodies, but you should still practice safe sex and avoid sharing needles if at risk.
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab. If you’re at high risk for HIV, your provider may recommend more frequent testing or additional follow-up tests.
While rare, both false positives and false negatives can occur, especially in the early stages of infection. If your initial test is positive, a confirmatory test will be used to ensure accuracy. If your test is negative but you suspect exposure, your provider may recommend additional testing.
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