Test guide
HIV Screening Test
An HIV test checks a sample of your blood, saliva (spit), or urine (pee) to see whether you are infected with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). HIV is a virus that destroys certain cells in your immune system . These cells protect your body against diseases from germs , such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. If you lose too many immune cells, your body will have trouble fighting off infections and other diseases.
What it is for
An HIV screening test is used to find out if you have been infected with HIV. It may be done as a routine test or after a possible exposure to find out if you were infected with HIV. If HIV is found early, you can take medicines to protect your health so you don't get AIDS. Medicines can also help you avoid spreading HIV to others. Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine. Medical test information is public domain. Source identity and definition checked automatically on 2026-10-18. No individual clinical interpretation or human reviewer is asserted.
Limitations
Reference intervals and interpretation depend on the laboratory, specimen, method and clinical context. This source definition is educational information; it does not establish a diagnosis, product approval or suitability for an individual.
Also known as
- HIV antibody/antigen tests, HIV-1 and HIV-2 antibody and antigen evaluation, HIV test, human immunodeficiency virus antibody test, type 1, HIV p24 antigen test
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