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Lung-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody screening in serum

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

This test measures antibodies to certain lung-related antigens in your blood. It helps detect past or current infections or immune responses in the lungs.

Quick summary

["This test may help identify lung-related immune activity or past infections that your body has responded to."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110731-7
Short code
L pneumo IgM Msmt Ser
Synonyms
L pneumo IgM 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
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, shortness of breath, or if you’ve been exposed to lung infections. It can also be part of monitoring for conditions like autoimmune lung diseases or chronic infections.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.

What the Results Mean

Elevated levels of lung-specific IgM antibodies may suggest an ongoing immune response to lung pathogens or chronic lung conditions. Lower or normal levels indicate no significant immune reaction to these antigens.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to evaluate lung infections (e.g., pneumonia, tuberculosis), autoimmune lung diseases, or chronic inflammatory conditions affecting lung immunity.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgM Antibody Screening (Lung)

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
You can eat and drink normally before this test, as no fasting is required.
Does this test require a fasting period?
No, fasting is not required for this test.
  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