Pneumonia-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* (serum/plasma)
This test measures the level of antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common cause of pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
["This test helps diagnose or monitor infections caused by *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* and assesses your immune response to it."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26684-1
- Short code
- M pneumo IgA Ser Ql IA
- Synonyms
- M pneumo IgA Ser Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects IgG antibodies specific to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a bacterium that can lead to respiratory infections. These antibodies develop after your body has been exposed to the bacteria, indicating an active or past infection. The presence of these antibodies suggests your immune system has recognized and responded to the organism.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, fever, or breathing difficulties, especially if other tests (like chest X-rays or cultures) are inconclusive. It can also be used to confirm a diagnosis in cases where *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* is suspected but not easily identified through other methods.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or vein to draw a blood sample. If you’re on blood-thinning medication or have a history of bleeding issues, let your provider know beforehand.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically involves processing the serum or plasma to detect the presence of IgG antibodies. Results are usually available within a few days, depending on lab processing times.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate that your immune system has mounted an antibody response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, strongly suggesting past or current infection. This can help guide treatment decisions, such as prescribing appropriate antibiotics if needed. However, IgG alone may not be sufficient to confirm an active infection without additional clinical correlation, as antibodies can take time to develop and may persist for months after resolution of symptoms.
Short name
IgG to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
What if my 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