Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Immunoassay for Anti-Protein A Antibodies (Qualitative)

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

This test checks for the presence of antibodies that bind to Protein A, a protein found on some bacteria like *Staphylococcus*. It helps identify infections caused by these bacteria, such as skin or soft tissue infections.

Quick summary

["This test can help diagnose infections linked to *Staphylococcus* bacteria, guiding treatment decisions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104512-9
Short code
Jo sup(a) Ab Titr SerPl
Synonyms
Jo sup(a) Ab Titr SerPl
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

When Is This Test Done?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a bacterial infection—such as fever, redness, swelling, or pus—and suspect a *Staphylococcus* infection, like an abscess or cellulitis. It may also be used in research or specialized diagnostic settings.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma for testing.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your body has produced antibodies against Protein A, suggesting a current or recent *Staphylococcus* infection. This does not confirm the specific type of bacteria but supports the need for further evaluation or treatment.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, which may indicate no active *Staphylococcus* infection or that the test was not performed under the right conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: This test is primarily used in research or specialized settings to detect infections caused by *Staphylococcus* bacteria, which can cause serious skin, soft tissue, or systemic infections. It is not routinely used in standard clinical practice due to limited availability and specificity.

Short name

Anti-Protein A Antibodies (Qual)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test if they suspect a *Staphylococcus* infection based on symptoms, but standard tests (like blood cultures) are inconclusive or unavailable. It is less common and often used in specific research or diagnostic contexts.
What are the typical symptoms of a *Staphylococcus* infection that might lead to this test?
Symptoms could include fever, redness, swelling, pain, or pus at the infection site (e.g., skin abscesses, cellulitis, or wound infections). If you have these symptoms and a doctor suspects *Staphylococcus*, they may recommend this test as part of a broader evaluation.
Are there any risks or side effects from this test?
The most common risk is mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site from the blood draw. There are no known side effects from the antibody testing itself, as it involves only a blood sample processed for qualitative detection.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 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.

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