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Pneumococcal Antibody Screening (Serum) by Immunoassay

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

This test detects antibodies in your blood that may help identify past or current exposure to *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (pneumococcus), a common bacterial cause of pneumonia, meningitis, and other infections.

Quick summary

["Assists in diagnosing or monitoring infections linked to pneumococcal bacteria."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5252-2
Short code
M pneumo Ab Ser LA-aCnc
Synonyms
M pneumo Ab Ser LA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
la
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 looks for specific antibodies produced by your immune system in response to pneumococcal bacteria. These antibodies can indicate whether your body has encountered the bacteria before or if an infection is ongoing.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of pneumonia, recurrent infections, or if you’re at higher risk (e.g., elderly, immunocompromised, or with chronic health conditions). It can also help guide decisions about vaccines or antibiotic treatment.

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part without clotting factors), which is then tested for pneumococcal antibodies.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications or recent illnesses. Avoid alcohol before the draw if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Pneumococcal Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

How long will I need to wait for results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests your body has produced antibodies against pneumococcus, which could mean past exposure or infection. However, it doesn’t confirm active disease without clinical correlation.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Home-based tests for antibodies are not standard for this specific purpose.
  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