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Pneumococcal IgG Antibody (Serum) – Quantitative

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

This test measures the amount of IgG antibodies your body produces in response to exposure to pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause serious infections like pneumonia, meningitis, or bloodstream infections.

Quick summary

["IgG antibodies help your immune system recognize and fight future infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58708-9
Short code
M pneumo IgM Ser Ql IF
Synonyms
M pneumo IgM 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
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 doctor may order this test if you’ve had recent or recurring infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria, if you’re at high risk for pneumococcal disease (such as due to weakened immunity), or if you’re being evaluated for immunity after vaccination. It can also help assess long-term immune response in certain conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. The process takes a few minutes and is typically painless.

What the Test Results Mean

Results are qualitative (yes/no) or quantitative (measured in arbitrary units), indicating whether you have detectable IgG antibodies against pneumococcal bacteria. High levels suggest immunity, while low or absent levels may indicate insufficient protection or prior lack of exposure.

Possible Causes of Abnormal Results

Low or absent IgG levels could mean you haven’t been exposed to pneumococcal bacteria recently, have a weakened immune system, or may need vaccination to boost protection. High levels may indicate past infection or vaccination.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG Antibody to *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my doctor ask for this test?
Your doctor may recommend this test to evaluate your immune response to pneumococcal bacteria, especially if you have a history of pneumococcal infections, are immunocompromised, or are being considered for pneumococcal vaccination.
What does a low or high result mean for my health?
A low result suggests you may not have adequate immunity against pneumococcal bacteria and could benefit from vaccination. A high result indicates your body has recognized and produced antibodies in response to exposure or vaccination.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  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