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Cva16absp2titrsercf

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

This blood test measures antibodies against Coxsackievirus A16, a virus that can cause hand, foot, and mouth disease and occasionally affect the heart.

Quick summary

{"Detects antibodies to Coxsackievirus A16 in your blood","Helps diagnose recent or past viral infections","May help identify causes of heart inflammation (myocarditis)","Requires a second blood sample for comparison","Sample is collected from a vein in your arm"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24229-7
Short code
COXA16
Synonyms
CV A16 Ab sp2 Titr Ser CF
Category
cardiac
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
1
Ref high
8
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
comp-fix
CPT
86658
SNOMED
371949004
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of serum
Stability
Serum should be separated within 2 hours of collection. Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) for longer storage up to 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
20
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Coxsackievirus A16 antibody test is a blood test that looks for specific antibodies (your immune system's defense proteins) against Coxsackievirus A16. This virus is a common cause of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), especially in children. It belongs to a group of viruses called enteroviruses. The test uses a technique called complement fixation to detect these antibodies in your blood sample.

Why is a second specimen needed?

This test involves taking two blood samples, usually 2-4 weeks apart. This is called a "convalescent" or follow-up specimen. By comparing the antibody levels (titers) from both samples, doctors can determine if you have a recent or active infection. A significant increase in antibody levels between the two tests indicates a recent infection, while stable levels suggest a past infection.

What happens during the test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch or sting. The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory where technicians will look for antibodies against Coxsackievirus A16 using the complement fixation method. The process is quick and typically takes only a few minutes.

Is the test safe?

Yes, this is a standard blood test with minimal risks. Some people may experience slight bruising or soreness at the puncture site. Serious complications are rare. If you feel dizzy or faint during or after the blood draw, let the healthcare provider know.

Reference range

<1:8 titer is considered negative; ≥1:8 titer indicates positive or past infection. A fourfold rise in titer between acute and convalescent specimens indicates recent infection.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Standard venipuncture procedure applies.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
No, you do not need to fast. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.
How long does it take to get results?
Results may take several days to a week, as the test requires special laboratory processing. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results once they are available.
What do the results mean?
Your doctor will interpret the results by comparing the antibody levels from both blood samples. A four-fold or greater increase in antibody levels between the two samples indicates a recent or current infection. A positive result with stable levels suggests a past infection. Negative results may mean you have not been infected with Coxsackievirus A16, or the infection was so mild that your body did not produce detectable antibodies.
Does a positive result mean I have heart disease?
No, a positive result does not necessarily mean you have heart disease. Many people have antibodies to Coxsackievirus A16 from past infections (especially children who have had hand, foot, and mouth disease) without any heart problems. Your doctor will consider the test results along with your symptoms, physical examination, and other test results to determine if further evaluation is needed.
Is this test contagious?
No, the test itself is not contagious. It is a blood test that detects your immune response to a past or current infection. You cannot catch Coxsackievirus A16 from the test.
  1. 1
    Coxsackievirus Infections - Merck ManualSource
  2. 2
    Viral Myocarditis - American Heart AssociationSource
  3. 3
    Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease - CDCSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy