Synonyms: HIV-Ab

Clinical significanceClinical indicationsSample typePreparationNotes

Clinical significance
There are two known types of HIV, type 1 (HIV-1) and type 2 (HIV-2), and antibody screening covers both; if confirmed (by Western blot), the presence of anti-HIV-1/2 antibodies only indicates that infection has occurred.

Clinical indications
Screening, surveillance of exposures

Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken

Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed.

Notes
A NEGATIVE result indicates that antibodies are absent.
A POSITIVE result indicates that antibodies are present.
A negative test result does not rule out the possibility of exposure to or infection with HCV.