Mycoplasma pneumoniae Detection by Fluorescent Antibody Test (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for antibodies to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common bacteria linked to respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis. It helps determine if your immune system has encountered this organism.
["This test may be used to diagnose infections caused by *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* when other tests are inconclusive or symptoms persist."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34702-1
- Short code
- Mycoplasma Spec Ql Hoechst Stn
- Synonyms
- Mycoplasma Spec Ql Hoechst Stn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.5
- Ref high
- 9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- hoechst-stain
- CPT
- 83002
- 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 specific antibodies (immunoglobulins) produced by your immune system in response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*. These antibodies appear in your blood after exposure to the bacteria. The presence of these antibodies suggests past or current infection, though they may take several days to weeks to develop.
How the Test Works
This is a fluorescent antibody test, meaning a fluorescent dye is used to identify antibodies bound to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* antigens in your serum or plasma. The test is qualitative, meaning it provides a yes/no result rather than a quantitative measurement of antibody levels.
When You Might Need This Test
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like cough, fever, or chest pain that suggest a respiratory infection, especially if other tests (like a chest X-ray or culture) are unclear. It’s often used in cases where *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* is suspected but not confirmed by other methods.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then processed in the lab to detect antibodies.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate exposure to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, which can cause mild to severe respiratory illness. While this test helps diagnose infection, it does not confirm active disease in all cases. Antibody levels may remain positive for months or years after infection. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing atypical pneumonia or persistent coughs in adults and children.
Short name
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibody Screen
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 test comes back positive but I don’t feel sick?
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