Antibody Detection by Line Blot for Specific Antigens (e.g., *E. coli* O157:H7 or other pathogens)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that may indicate past exposure to certain harmful bacteria or viruses, often used to screen for foodborne illnesses or infections.
["This test helps identify if your immune system has recognized and fought off specific pathogens, aiding in diagnosis or monitoring of infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82933-3
- Short code
- ENA SS-A 52kD IgG Ser Ql Line blot
- Synonyms
- ENA SS-A 52kD IgG Ser Ql Line blot
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- line-blot
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 uses a line blot method to detect antibodies against specific antigens, such as those produced by bacteria like *E. coli* or viruses. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes in response to infection. This method helps identify whether your body has encountered these pathogens before.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is collected and tested for the presence of antibodies. If antibodies are found, they bind to specific lines on a test strip, creating a visible line that indicates a positive result. This test is qualitative, meaning it only shows whether antibodies are present, not their exact amount.
When This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of infection (e.g., fever, stomach pain, diarrhea) or if you’ve been exposed to a known pathogen. It’s also used in screening for foodborne illnesses, travel-related infections, or monitoring chronic conditions linked to specific pathogens.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted to draw blood from your arm. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest your immune system has recognized and responded to a pathogen, which can confirm a past infection or exposure. However, antibodies may remain for months or years after infection, so a positive test doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found at this time, which may prompt further testing or investigation.
Short name
Pathogen Line Blot Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
Why did my doctor order this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get infected from this test?
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