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Lipopolysaccharide Antibody Screening in Serum (24-hour fluid collection)

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

This test measures antibodies to lipopolysaccharides (LPS), a component found in the outer membrane of certain bacteria. It helps identify if your immune system has detected and responded to these bacteria.

Quick summary

["Assesses immune response to bacterial endotoxins over a 24-hour period."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5236-5
Short code
L pneumo Ab Ser Ql IF
Synonyms
L pneumo Ab Ser Ql IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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 have symptoms suggestive of an immune response to bacterial infection, such as fever, fatigue, or signs of inflammation. It could also be used in research or specialized clinical settings to monitor immune reactions to bacterial exposure.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect a serum sample (blood drawn) and may be asked to provide a 24-hour urine or fluid sample containing LPS. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate the presence of antibodies to LPS, suggesting your body has detected and reacted to bacterial endotoxins. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found in this sample.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is less commonly performed in routine clinical practice but may be used in specific cases like sepsis monitoring, immune system studies, or research involving bacterial exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

While not a standard diagnostic tool, elevated LPS antibody levels may correlate with chronic immune activation or past exposure to bacterial infections. It’s important to discuss results with your healthcare provider, as they’ll consider your full clinical picture.

Short name

LPS Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests your immune system has detected and produced antibodies against lipopolysaccharides, which are components of certain bacteria. This could indicate past exposure or an ongoing immune response to bacterial endotoxins.
How is this test different from standard blood tests?
Unlike standard blood tests that measure specific markers like white blood cells or proteins, this test specifically looks for antibodies to bacterial endotoxins. It’s designed to detect immune system reactions to LPS rather than direct bacterial counts.
Can I fast before this test?
Fasting may not be required for this test, as it involves collecting serum and fluid samples. However, always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions for sample collection to ensure accuracy.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy