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Staphylococcus aureus Enterotoxin, Eiger Assay — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A qualitative test used to detect Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin, a bacterial toxin that can cause food poisoning and other forms of toxin-related illness.

Quick summary

["A positive result means Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin was detected in the tested sample."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
90882-2
Short code
Deprecated S aureus Etx E IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated S aureus Etx E IgE RAST Ql
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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

What is this test?

This is a qualitative laboratory test for detecting Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin. Enterotoxins are toxins produced by certain strains of S. aureus and can cause sudden vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered when toxin-related illness is suspected, especially during a foodborne illness outbreak. It may also be used to evaluate samples associated with exposure to contaminated food or other suspected sources.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory sample is analyzed using the Eiger assay to determine whether S. aureus enterotoxin is present. The result is reported qualitatively as detected or not detected, and confirmatory testing may be recommended when necessary.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the specimen and testing situation ordered by your healthcare professional. Follow the laboratory's collection or submission instructions, and ask the ordering clinician whether any dietary or medication changes are required.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

S. aureus enterotoxin test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
It means Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin was detected in the sample. This can support toxin-related illness or help identify a contaminated food or other source.
Does a negative result rule out S. aureus poisoning?
No. Detection can be affected by the timing and type of sample, toxin levels, and specimen handling, so a negative result must be interpreted with the symptoms and other test findings.
Is this test the same as a test for live bacteria?
No. This test detects enterotoxin produced by Staphylococcus aureus rather than directly determining whether live bacteria are present.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy