Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Antibody Screen, Serum/Plasma
This test checks for antibodies to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which your body makes in response to infection. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to HIV.
["This screening helps identify possible HIV infection early for further testing and care."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 94342-3
- Short code
- Hu1 IgG Titr Ser IF
- Synonyms
- Hu1 IgG Titr Ser IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 82977
- SNOMED
- 3110003
- 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 detects antibodies produced by your immune system after exposure to HIV. These antibodies are present in your blood or plasma and can indicate past or recent infection. The test does not directly measure the virus itself.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Healthcare providers may recommend this screening if you have risk factors for HIV, such as unprotected sexual contact, shared needles, or other behaviors that increase exposure risk. It’s also part of routine testing for certain groups (e.g., pregnant individuals, people with sexually transmitted infections).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, let your provider know before testing.
What Happens After the Test?
After drawing blood, a bandage will cover the site. You can resume normal activities. Results may take several days to weeks, depending on lab processing. Follow-up testing (like a confirmatory HIV test) may be needed if initial results are positive.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result means antibodies to HIV are detected, suggesting past or recent infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies at the time of testing, but HIV could still be present without antibodies (early infection). Always confirm with additional testing if needed. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and support to manage health.
Short name
HIV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
How soon after exposure might I get a positive result?
Can this test detect HIV in other body fluids besides blood?
What if my test is positive?
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