Skip to content

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

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

This test measures your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and screens for HIV antibodies in your blood. It helps check thyroid function and detect HIV infection early.

Quick summary

["Your TSH level helps monitor thyroid health, while HIV screening ensures early detection of infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13871-9
Short code
TSH 2h p TRH IV SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
TSH 2h 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

Why This Test Matters for Thyroid Health

TSH is a hormone produced by your pituitary gland that signals your thyroid to produce thyroid hormones. Low or high TSH levels can indicate thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or unexplained mood swings.

How the HIV Screening Works

This part of the test checks for HIV antibodies in your blood, which develop after infection. The screening is typically qualitative and designed to detect HIV presence early, often as part of routine health checks or if you have risk factors.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for the TSH test. For the HIV screening, you may fast for 8–12 hours before blood collection, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you’re taking to your appointment.

What to Expect During the Test

A healthcare provider will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless. You may feel a slight pinch, but most people tolerate it well. The blood sample is then sent for testing.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HIV TSH Panel

Frequently asked questions

What does a high TSH level mean?
A high TSH level often suggests hypothyroidism, meaning your thyroid isn’t producing enough hormones. This can lead to symptoms like tiredness, cold sensitivity, or weight changes. Your doctor may recommend further thyroid function tests or treatment to manage symptoms.
Will I need follow-up tests if HIV antibodies are found?
If HIV antibodies are detected in screening, your healthcare provider will likely order confirmatory tests (e.g., Western blot or rapid HIV tests) to confirm infection. These tests are more specific and help guide next steps, such as treatment or counseling.
Can I eat or drink before the blood draw for HIV screening?
While fasting is often recommended for some HIV antibody tests, your provider may allow water or light snacks. Always follow your healthcare team’s instructions to avoid unnecessary delays or errors in 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