Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 Antibody Screening by Serological Test
This test detects antibodies to Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 (HIV-2), a virus that can weaken your immune system. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
["This screening helps identify potential HIV-2 infection early for further evaluation and care."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24220-6
- Short code
- HPIV2 Ab sp1 Titr Ser CF
- Synonyms
- HPIV2 Ab sp1 Titr Ser CF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- comp-fix
- 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-2 infection, such as unprotected sex with multiple partners, sharing needles, or living in regions where HIV-2 is more common. It may also be part of routine testing in certain healthcare settings.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it typically takes only a few minutes.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies to HIV-2, indicating past or possible current infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this test. Follow-up testing may be needed to confirm results.
What Happens Next
If your test is positive, your healthcare provider will discuss next steps, which may include additional testing to confirm the diagnosis and determine your health needs.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV-2 Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Early detection of HIV-2 infection is crucial for managing the virus and preventing complications. This screening helps healthcare providers monitor and support individuals at risk, ensuring timely treatment and care to improve long-term health outcomes.
A positive result suggests you may have been exposed to HIV-2. This does not confirm infection immediately, so further testing is needed to determine if you have the virus. Your healthcare provider will guide you on next steps, including possible follow-up tests.
Yes, a negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this test. However, HIV-2 can take time to develop antibodies after exposure. If you have risk factors, continue practicing safer behaviors and discuss ongoing monitoring with your healthcare provider.
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