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Antibody Screening for *Serum* (Serum Antibody Screening)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the presence of antibodies in your blood, which may indicate an immune response to infections, autoimmune conditions, or other health concerns.

Quick summary

["This screening helps identify potential immune system activity that may require further evaluation."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42200-6
Short code
dsDNA Ab Ser RIA-aCnc
Synonyms
dsDNA Ab Ser RIA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ria
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, unexplained fevers, joint pain, or if they suspect an infection, autoimmune disease, or other conditions affecting your immune system. It can also be part of routine monitoring for certain conditions or after exposure to potential pathogens.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications or recent illnesses.

What the Test Results Mean

Results may show positive or negative findings for specific antibodies. A positive result doesn’t always mean you have an active infection or disease—it may indicate past exposure or a mild immune response. Further testing may be needed to clarify.

Common Conditions Monitored

This screening can help diagnose or monitor conditions like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, infections (e.g., Lyme disease, HIV), or other autoimmune or inflammatory disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive antibody result mean?
A positive result means antibodies were detected in your blood. This could indicate an immune response to an infection, autoimmune condition, or other health issue. It doesn’t always mean you’re currently sick, and further testing will help determine the cause.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this test, as no special preparation is required. However, let your healthcare provider know if you’re taking any medications or have a history of bleeding disorders.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will discuss the findings with you during a follow-up visit.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy