HIV Symptoms and Signs Screening Panel (Serum/Plasma)
This test evaluates markers that may indicate exposure to HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, by analyzing your blood. It helps determine if you’ve been recently exposed to the virus.
This screening helps identify potential HIV exposure early for prompt medical evaluation.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48549-0
- Short code
- HIVSIGNSANDSYMPTOMSCHECKLISTSSCPANEL
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 panel includes tests for antibodies and antigens that may appear in your blood after HIV exposure. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to the virus, while antigens are specific viral proteins detected shortly after infection. These tests are designed to detect signs of recent infection, not past exposure.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is collected and analyzed using immunoassay methods, which detect the presence of HIV antibodies and antigens. These tests are highly sensitive and specific for identifying active HIV infection.
Preparation and Sample Collection
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The sample is sent to a lab for testing.
When to Consider This Test
This screening panel is recommended for individuals at higher risk of HIV exposure, such as those with multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex, shared needles, or other risk factors. It may also be advised by your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
HIV Screening Panel
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What do the results mean?
Can I get false positives or negatives?
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