Serum or Plasma Immunoassay for Anti-Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibodies (Qualitative or Quantitative)
This test measures antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common bacterial cause of respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis.
["Helps diagnose infections caused by *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* when symptoms like cough or fever persist."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72870-9
- Short code
- M leprae rpoB RIF res mut Islt/Spm Ql
- Synonyms
- M leprae rpoB RIF res mut Islt/Spm Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- molgen
- 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 This Test Measures
The test detects antibodies (IgG or IgM) produced by your body after exposure to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*. Antibodies appear after infection or vaccination and can linger for months or years. This test is often used to confirm a diagnosis when other tests (like culture or PCR) are inconclusive or unavailable.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, fever, or chest pain that suggest a respiratory infection, especially if tests for other common causes (like viruses or other bacteria) have been negative.
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn and sent to a lab where it is tested using an immunoassay method. This method detects specific antibodies in your serum or plasma that bind to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* antigens, indicating past or current infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally on the day of the test, but inform your provider if you are on blood-thinning medications or have bleeding disorders, as this may affect blood collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest past or current infection with *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*. High antibody levels may indicate recent exposure or active infection, particularly in patients with atypical symptoms. However, false positives can occur, especially in people with other infections or autoimmune conditions. This test is often used alongside clinical findings and other diagnostic tools to guide treatment decisions.
Short name
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test be used to diagnose *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* infection right away?
What if my test results are positive but I don’t have symptoms?
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