Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 Antibody Screening by Serological Test (Qualitative)
This test checks for antibodies to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) type 2, which can help determine if you have been exposed to the virus. Antibodies are proteins your body makes in response to infection.
["This screening helps identify potential exposure to HIV-2, guiding further testing and care if needed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 24221-4
- Short code
- HPIV2 Ab sp2 Titr Ser CF
- Synonyms
- HPIV2 Ab sp2 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects the presence of antibodies specific to HIV-2, which your immune system produces after exposure to the virus. These antibodies are a sign that your body has recognized and responded to the virus, though they do not necessarily mean you are currently infected or have active HIV-2.
How the Test Works
This test uses a serological method to identify antibodies in your blood. A blood sample is collected and analyzed to check for HIV-2 antibodies, typically through an immunoassay technique that detects these proteins.
Why It’s Done
Healthcare providers may order this test if you have risk factors for HIV-2 exposure, such as living in regions where HIV-2 is more common, having unprotected sex with multiple partners, or sharing needles. It can also be part of routine screening in certain populations.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood sample is then processed and sent to a lab for testing. You may feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted, but the procedure is quick and typically painless.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV-2 Antibody Screen (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
If antibodies to HIV-2 are found, further confirmatory testing is usually recommended to ensure accuracy. Positive results indicate past exposure, but not necessarily current infection. Early detection is crucial for managing health and preventing transmission.
What does a positive result mean?
How soon after exposure can I expect a positive result?
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