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Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) with HIV Serology Panel (Screening)

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

This test measures your thyroid-stimulating hormone level and checks for antibodies to HIV, helping your doctor monitor your thyroid function and screen for HIV infection.

Quick summary

["Your thyroid hormone balance and HIV status are checked together in one test for efficiency and clarity."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13869-3
Short code
TSH 1.5h p TRH IV SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
TSH 1.5h p TRH IV SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.4
Ref high
4
Critical range
0.1 N/A – 20 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 includes two key parts: your TSH level and HIV antibody screening. TSH is a hormone produced by your pituitary gland that signals your thyroid to produce hormones. Elevated or low TSH can indicate thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The HIV screening detects antibodies that your immune system produces in response to HIV infection, typically appearing within weeks to months after exposure.

Why It’s Ordered

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of thyroid problems (such as fatigue, weight changes, or sensitivity to heat/cold) or if you’re at higher risk for HIV (e.g., sexually active with multiple partners, HIV-exposed infants, or those with risk factors like unprotected sex or shared needles). It may also be part of routine check-ups for people with chronic conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. For the TSH part, you may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm. For the HIV screening, a blood sample is also taken. If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or on certain medications (like steroids), let your doctor know, as these can affect results.

What to Expect After the Test

After the blood draw, you may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the site, which usually goes away quickly. You can resume normal activities immediately. Results for TSH and HIV screening are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.

Reference range

Adult: 0.4-4.0 mIU/LN/A

Specimen: serum

Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal TSH levels can signal thyroid disorders that may require treatment, such as levothyroxine for hypothyroidism or thyroid medication adjustments for hyperthyroidism. HIV antibody screening is critical for early detection and management of HIV, allowing for timely treatment to improve health outcomes. If your TSH is high, it may indicate hypothyroidism, which can cause fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. If low, it may suggest hyperthyroidism, leading to anxiety, weight loss, or rapid heartbeat. Positive HIV screening results require confirmation with additional tests to determine infection status.

Short name

TSH + HIV Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results for the TSH and HIV screening are usually available within 1 to 3 business days, but this can vary depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your doctor will contact you once results are ready.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No special diet or fasting is required for this test. You can eat, drink water, and take your usual medications as usual. Blood samples are typically drawn from a vein in your arm, and no special preparation is needed beyond standard precautions.
What if my TSH level is outside the normal range?
If your TSH level is outside the normal range, your doctor may recommend further testing, such as additional thyroid hormone measurements (like free T4) or thyroid antibody tests. They may also adjust your treatment plan if you’re already on thyroid medication. Follow-up visits will help determine the best course of action based on your symptoms and lab results.
  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