Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibody Detection by Sequence-Based Assay (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for antibodies to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common bacteria linked to respiratory infections like pneumonia or bronchitis. It helps determine if your immune system has ever encountered this bacterium.
["This test may be used if you’ve had symptoms of a respiratory infection and your doctor suspects *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* as the cause."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 101528-8
- Short code
- Mycoplasma DNA Islt Seq
- Synonyms
- Mycoplasma DNA Islt Seq
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- sequencing
- 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 symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, or chest pain that don’t improve with typical antibiotics. It’s often used when other causes of respiratory illness aren’t clear or when *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* is suspected in outbreaks or clusters of similar cases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually from a vein in your arm) or plasma (if drawn into a special tube). The sample is sent to a lab for testing.
How the Test Works
The test uses a molecular method to detect antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*. Antibodies are proteins your body makes to fight infections.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your body has likely been exposed to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* at some point. A negative result suggests no current or recent exposure, but it doesn’t rule out past infection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can this test be used to diagnose an active infection?
How long do I need to wait for results?
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