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Elastase Antibody, Serum — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A qualitative blood test that checks for antibodies directed against elastase, an enzyme involved in tissue breakdown and inflammation.

Quick summary

["Detecting elastase antibodies can provide information about an immune response, but results must be interpreted with symptoms and other tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54017-9
Short code
Elastase Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
Elastase Ab Ser Ql
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 is this test?

This test examines serum, the liquid portion of blood, for antibodies directed against elastase. Elastase is an enzyme that helps break down certain proteins and is involved in inflammation and tissue remodeling.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be considered when a clinician is evaluating a suspected autoimmune condition, particularly when symptoms involve the lungs, skin, or joints. It is not usually used as a stand-alone screening test.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the serum is tested in the laboratory for elastase antibodies. Because this is a qualitative test, the result is generally reported as detected or not detected, possibly with an accompanying laboratory interpretation.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Follow any instructions from your healthcare provider or laboratory, and tell the clinician if you have recently started a new medicine or had an infection.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Elastase antibody, serum

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive elastase antibody result mean?
It means that antibodies directed against elastase were detected in the blood. This may support evaluation for an immune-related condition, but it does not establish a specific diagnosis on its own.
What does a negative result mean?
A result that is not detected means elastase antibodies were not found by the laboratory method used. It can reduce the likelihood of certain immune-related conditions but does not exclude all causes of symptoms.
Is this the same as a pancreatic elastase test?
No. This test looks for antibodies against elastase in blood. Pancreatic elastase tests generally measure pancreatic enzyme activity, often in stool, and answer a different clinical question.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy