Antibody Screening for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) - Serum/Plasma
This test checks for antibodies that your body produces in response to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Antibodies are proteins that help your immune system fight infections.
["HIV antibody screening helps detect early exposure to HIV, even before symptoms appear."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22363-6
- Short code
- HTLV I+II Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- HTLV I+II Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test looks for specific antibodies (proteins) in your blood that may indicate past or current exposure to HIV. These antibodies are created by your immune system in reaction to the virus. The presence of these antibodies suggests your body has encountered HIV, though they may not appear immediately after exposure.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sex, sharing needles, or living in areas with higher HIV prevalence. It’s also used during pregnancy to check for HIV infection in both mother and baby.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch or sting. If you’re pregnant, you may need to schedule this test during your prenatal visits.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample is sent to a lab for testing. Results are typically available within a few days. If antibodies are found, further testing (like a confirmatory HIV test) will be needed to confirm HIV infection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Early detection of HIV is crucial because it allows for timely treatment and management. Antibody screening helps identify potential exposure early, enabling healthcare providers to recommend preventive measures or start treatment promptly if HIV is confirmed.
Antibodies may take weeks to months to develop after exposure to HIV. Some people may test negative during the early window period (up to 3 months post-exposure), so repeated testing may be recommended if you suspect recent exposure.
A positive antibody result means your body has detected HIV antibodies, but it doesn’t confirm HIV infection alone. Your healthcare provider will likely order a confirmatory test (like a Western Blot or rapid HIV test) to confirm the diagnosis. Follow-up care and counseling will be provided to guide you through next steps.
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