What Is HIV-1/2 Antibodies?

What it is

Antibodies are the immune system's response to HIV infection, appearing weeks after exposure (the window period).

Why it matters

HIV antibody tests are the standard first-line screening; a reactive result is presumptive and needs confirmation.

Specimen

Whole blood / serum / plasma / oral fluid

Interpretation

Reactive = HIV antibodies detected (presumptive). Non-reactive = not detected.

Limitations

Window period ~3–6 weeks; reactive results require confirmation per national algorithm.

Related test: HIV 1/2 Rapid Test — specimen: WB / S / P