Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 Immunoglobulin M Antibody (IgM) - Serum/Plasma
This test measures the presence of Immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies against Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 2 (HIV-2) in your blood. IgM antibodies are often detected early in infection but may decline over time as other antibody types (like IgG) develop.
["This test helps detect early HIV-2 infection by identifying IgM antibodies, which can appear sooner than other markers."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110201-1
- Short code
- HPIV2 IgM Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- HPIV2 IgM Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms suggestive of HIV-2 infection (such as fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes), have risk factors for HIV-2 (e.g., exposure in regions where HIV-2 is more common), or if you’re part of a group at higher risk. It may also be used as part of a diagnostic workup for suspected HIV infection, especially if HIV-1 testing is inconclusive or if HIV-2 is suspected.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw a blood sample. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—they can help make the process more comfortable.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The blood is then sent to a lab for testing.
What the Results Mean
Results can be positive (indicating current or past HIV-2 infection), negative (no detectable IgM antibodies), or inconclusive. A positive result means further testing (like HIV-2 viral load or antibody confirmation) is usually needed to confirm diagnosis. A negative result means no IgM antibodies were found at the time of testing.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detecting HIV-2 early is important because it allows for timely medical intervention, which can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. IgM antibodies are useful for identifying acute or early-stage infection, though they may not persist long-term. If you test positive, your healthcare provider will guide you on next steps, including additional testing and treatment options.
Short name
IgM Antibody to HIV-2
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get HIV-2 from sharing needles or having unprotected sex?
How long after exposure might I test positive for IgM antibodies?
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