Streptococcus pneumoniae Antibody Screening (Serum/Plasma) by Immunoassay
This test checks for antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (pneumonia bacteria). It helps determine if your body has been exposed to this germ, which can cause serious infections like pneumonia.
["This test helps doctors assess past exposure to pneumonia bacteria and guide treatment decisions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 74737-8
- Short code
- Deprecated S pneumoniae gryB Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
- Synonyms
- Deprecated S pneumoniae gryB Bld Pos Ql Prb Mag
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-mag-capture
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms of pneumonia, have a history of respiratory infections, or are at higher risk for complications from *Streptococcus pneumoniae*. It’s also sometimes used in screening for people in close contact with those who have pneumonia.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The serum or plasma is then tested using an immunoassay method to detect specific antibodies against *Streptococcus pneumoniae*. This identifies whether your immune system has recognized and responded to the bacteria.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You can eat, drink, or take medications as usual. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know before the test.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie down on a table while a healthcare provider inserts a needle into a vein in your arm. A small amount of blood is drawn into a vial or tube. The process usually takes a few minutes. You may feel a brief pinch, but most people find it quick and not very uncomfortable.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate past exposure to *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, meaning your immune system has developed antibodies to fight it. This can help confirm a diagnosis of pneumonia, guide vaccination decisions, or assess risk for recurrent infections. However, a negative result does not rule out infection—other tests or clinical evaluation may be needed.
Short name
Strep pneumoniae Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Does this test show if I currently have pneumonia?
Can I get vaccinated instead of having this test?
How long will it take to get my 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