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 checks for HIV antibodies, a key step in early detection and management of HIV infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 45254-0
- Short code
- HIV Rx prior clinic
- Synonyms
- HIV Rx prior clinic
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- reported
- 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
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure. It’s also part of routine testing for certain groups (e.g., pregnant individuals, people with sexually transmitted infections).
What to Expect Before the Test
You may fast before the test, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you’re currently taking. The blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm, similar to other routine blood tests. The process usually takes a few minutes and is generally comfortable.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will clean the area with an antiseptic, insert a small needle into your vein, and collect a few drops of blood into a test tube. You may feel a brief pinch, but the procedure is quick and painless. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are typically reported as either positive (indicating possible HIV infection) or negative (no detectable antibodies). A positive result requires confirmation with another test (like a Western blot or PCR) to confirm HIV status. False positives are rare but possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
A positive HIV antibody screen signals the need for further testing to confirm infection. Early detection allows for immediate treatment, which can help manage symptoms and improve long-term health outcomes. HIV is a lifelong condition, but modern treatments can help people live long, healthy lives with proper care.
No, this test does not show whether you currently have HIV or how long ago you may have been exposed. It only detects antibodies your body produces after infection, which may take weeks to months to develop.
Yes, if you have risk factors for HIV (e.g., unprotected sex, sharing needles), your provider may recommend this test even if you don’t have symptoms. Regular testing is especially important for people who are sexually active with multiple partners or have other risk behaviors.
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