Heterophil Antibody Screening in Serum
This test measures antibodies that may react with horse or pig red blood cells, often used to help diagnose conditions like lupus or other autoimmune diseases.
["This screening helps identify potential autoimmune responses that may require further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111333-1
- Short code
- Heteroph Ab Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- Heteroph Ab Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- 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
What Is This Test Measuring?
The test detects the presence of heterophil antibodies, which are a type of antibody that can bind to certain animal red blood cells. These antibodies can sometimes indicate an autoimmune condition or an immune response to infection.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of autoimmune diseases (such as fatigue, joint pain, or rash) or if you have a history of similar conditions. It can also be used to monitor certain immune responses.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result suggests a higher likelihood of heterophil antibodies, which may point toward conditions like lupus (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) or other autoimmune disorders. Further testing, such as confirmatory assays, may be needed to clarify the diagnosis.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means no detectable heterophil antibodies were found in your sample, but it does not rule out other autoimmune conditions. Additional tests may still be necessary for a complete evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is primarily used as a screening tool to identify potential autoimmune activity. While heterophil antibodies are not specific to any single disease, they can help guide further diagnostic workup, especially in patients with suspected autoimmune disorders.
Short name
Heterophil Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result on this test mean for my health?
How often should I get this test if I have a history of autoimmune diseases?
Can lifestyle changes affect the results of 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