Antibody to Streptococcus pneumoniae (Qualitative)
This test checks for antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces to fight *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, a common bacteria that can cause pneumonia, meningitis, or other infections.
["It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to or infected by *Streptococcus pneumoniae* bacteria."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17612-3
- Short code
- Deprecated S pneum1 Ab sp1 Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated S pneum1 Ab sp1 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects the presence of antibodies (specifically immunoglobulin G, or IgG) against *Streptococcus pneumoniae*. These antibodies indicate your immune system has recognized and responded to the bacteria, which may have occurred from past infection or vaccination. The result is qualitative, meaning it only tells whether antibodies are present or not, without quantifying their level.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is tested using an immunoassay method to identify specific antibodies against *Streptococcus pneumoniae*. This test is typically used as a screening tool to assess exposure or immunity status.
When You Might Need This Test
You may need this test if you have a history of infections caused by *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, if you’re at high risk for pneumonia or other pneumococcal infections (e.g., due to age, chronic health conditions, or weakened immune system), or if you’re being evaluated for immunity after receiving a pneumococcal vaccine.
What to Expect Before the Test
There are no special preparations needed for this test. You may have some mild discomfort from the needle, but this usually goes away quickly. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result means your immune system has detected *Streptococcus pneumoniae* antibodies, suggesting past exposure or vaccination. This can be useful for monitoring immunity, diagnosing past infections, or guiding vaccination decisions. A negative result indicates no detectable antibodies, which may prompt further evaluation if you have symptoms or risk factors for infection.
Short name
Strep Pneumonia Antibody (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get this test at home?
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