Antibody to Streptococcus pneumoniae (Serum or Plasma)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, a common bacterial cause of pneumonia, ear infections, and other illnesses.
["Helps identify past or current immune response to pneumonia-causing bacteria."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13131-8
- Short code
- Deprecated S pneum 1 Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated S pneum 1 Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms of pneumonia, recurrent infections, or if you’re at higher risk for serious bacterial infections (e.g., due to weakened immunity, chronic conditions like asthma or heart disease, or recent travel to areas with high bacterial exposure). It may also be used to monitor immune response after vaccination or in cases where other tests are inconclusive.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it typically takes only a few minutes. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate your immune system has recognized *Streptococcus pneumoniae* antibodies, suggesting exposure (either from infection or vaccination). Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found, which may mean you haven’t been exposed recently or your immune system hasn’t mounted a response yet.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used to diagnose or confirm infections caused by *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, assess immune function in patients with chronic illnesses, or evaluate the effectiveness of vaccines targeting this bacterium.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High antibody levels may indicate past infection or vaccination success, but they don’t always correlate with immunity. Low or absent levels could prompt further investigation into immune deficiencies or recent exposure. Always discuss results with your provider—they’ll interpret them in the context of your health history and symptoms.
Short name
Strep pneumoniae Antibody
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I get this test at home?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy