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Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) with qualitative HIV serology screening

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

This test measures your thyroid-stimulating hormone level and checks for HIV antibodies in your blood. It helps monitor thyroid function and screen for HIV infection.

Quick summary

["Your TSH level helps doctors check if your thyroid is working properly, and HIV screening helps detect early signs of infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44936-3
Short code
TSH 15M pre TRH IV SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
TSH 15M pre TRH IV SerPl-aCnc
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
84443
SNOMED
301343003
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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or unexplained infections. It may also be part of routine check-ups for people at higher risk of thyroid issues or HIV.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein, usually in your arm, to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes.

What the Results Mean

TSH results alone can indicate thyroid problems (e.g., hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism). HIV screening results are qualitative—positive means antibodies are detected, but further testing is needed for confirmation.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

Low TSH may signal hypothyroidism, while high TSH could indicate thyroid issues or pregnancy. HIV antibodies appear after exposure but may take weeks to develop.

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.

This test combines two purposes: monitoring thyroid function and screening for HIV. TSH levels help diagnose thyroid disorders, while HIV antibodies screen for infection. False positives or negatives can occur, so follow-up testing may be needed.

Short name

TSH + HIV Screen (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

Will this test show if I have early HIV infection?
No, this test only screens for HIV antibodies, which appear after your body has had time to produce them. Early HIV infection may not show up in this screening.
What if my TSH level is out of range?
If your TSH is too high or low, your doctor may recommend further thyroid tests (like free T4) to check for underlying thyroid problems. They’ll discuss next steps with you.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this blood test, as no fasting is required.
  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