Serum or plasma mass concentration of antimicrobial peptides (e.g., defensins, cathelicidins)
This test measures certain natural proteins in your blood that help fight infections. These proteins are part of your body’s immune defense system.
["Understanding your immune response to infections through blood protein levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27964-6
- Short code
- Deprecated S pneum6+26 Ab Ser-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Deprecated S pneum6+26 Ab Ser-mCnc
- 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 have symptoms of frequent infections, immune system disorders, or if you’re undergoing treatment for conditions like chronic inflammation or autoimmune diseases. It can also help monitor immune function in certain medical conditions.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours if the test involves a specific type of specimen. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
What the Test Involves
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the mass concentration of antimicrobial peptides, which are proteins that help protect your body against harmful bacteria and viruses.
What the Results Mean
Results may indicate whether your immune system is producing adequate levels of these proteins. Abnormal levels could suggest an overactive or underactive immune response, which may require further evaluation by your doctor.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Low levels of antimicrobial peptides might be linked to increased susceptibility to infections, while elevated levels could point to chronic inflammation, autoimmune conditions, or other immune-related disorders. This test can help guide treatment plans for managing these conditions.
Short name
Antimicrobial peptide levels
Frequently asked questions
What does a low level of antimicrobial peptides mean?
What does a high level of antimicrobial peptides mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect these test 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