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Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Antibody Screening by Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test detects antibodies to HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, in your blood or plasma. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus.

Quick summary

["This screening identifies potential HIV infection early, supporting timely medical evaluation and treatment options."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15395-7
Short code
HPIV3 IgM Ser Ql
Synonyms
HPIV3 IgM Ser Ql
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

What This Test Measures

The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to HIV. These antibodies are created after exposure to the virus, typically within weeks to months. The immunoassay method uses a sensitive test to detect these antibodies in your blood or plasma sample.

Why It’s Done

Healthcare providers may order this test if you have risk factors for HIV (e.g., unprotected sex, shared needles, or exposure to infected blood), symptoms of infection, or if you’re part of a group at higher risk. It’s also used as part of routine screening in certain settings.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is then separated into plasma (the liquid part) for testing. This process is quick and usually done in a healthcare provider’s office or lab.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort from the needle, but it’s a common procedure with minimal risks.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HIV Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of HIV antibodies, suggesting you may have been exposed to the virus. You’ll need further testing (like a confirmatory HIV viral load test) to confirm the diagnosis and determine next steps, such as starting antiretroviral therapy.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no detectable HIV antibodies were found in your sample at the time of testing. However, HIV can take weeks to months to develop detectable antibodies, so a negative result doesn’t definitively rule out infection. Follow-up testing may be recommended if you have risk factors or symptoms.
How soon can I get results?
Results are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and guide you on next steps, such as additional testing or counseling.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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