Bovine Insulin Antibody Titration (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the presence of antibodies that may react with insulin derived from bovine (cow) sources. It helps identify individuals who might experience allergic or hypersensitivity reactions to insulin products containing bovine-derived components.
["Checks for potential insulin allergy or sensitivity before using certain insulin treatments."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38489-1
- Short code
- Insulin Bovine Ab Titr Ser
- Synonyms
- Insulin Bovine Ab Titr Ser
- Category
- hormone
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2.6
- Ref high
- 24.9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 83525
- SNOMED
- 413618004
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’re considering insulin therapy, particularly if you’ve had reactions to insulin from cow-derived sources or if you’re using insulin products labeled as ‘bovine-derived.’ It’s also used in research or specialized clinical settings to assess immune responses to insulin.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (serum or plasma) during a routine lab visit. If you’re on insulin therapy, discuss your current medication with your doctor before the test to ensure accurate results.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and indicate whether antibodies to bovine insulin are present. A positive result suggests an immune response that could affect how insulin products are tolerated.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is primarily used in clinical research, specialized diabetes care, or when insulin products containing bovine-derived components are being considered for treatment. It helps tailor insulin therapy to avoid allergic reactions.
Reference range
Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Understanding the Role of Antibodies
Short name
Bovine Insulin Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
Why might I need this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test affect my insulin treatment?
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