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Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibody, IgG (Serum)

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

This test measures your immune system’s response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common bacteria linked to respiratory infections like pneumonia and bronchitis.

Quick summary

["It helps diagnose past or current infections caused by this bacterium."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49110-0
Short code
Mycoplasma Ur Cult
Synonyms
Mycoplasma Ur Cult
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
organism-specific-culture
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms like cough, fever, or fatigue—especially if you’ve been exposed to respiratory illnesses. It’s also used to confirm a diagnosis in people with persistent or recurrent respiratory issues, particularly in children or those with weakened immune systems.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test is done on serum (liquid part of blood after clotting).

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate your body has produced antibodies against *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, suggesting past infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, which may mean you haven’t been infected recently or haven’t developed immunity.

Common Causes of Positive Results

A positive result is most likely due to a past *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* infection, but it can also appear in people who’ve been vaccinated or exposed to the bacteria without symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily used to support a clinical diagnosis of respiratory infections caused by *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*. It’s not a direct test for active infection but can help confirm exposure or past infection, aiding in treatment decisions or monitoring chronic conditions.

Short name

Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean for my health?
A positive result suggests your body has recognized *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* before, which may explain certain symptoms you’ve had. It doesn’t indicate whether you’re currently infected, but it can help guide further testing or treatment if needed.
Can I get this test if I’ve never had symptoms?
Yes, if you’ve been exposed to respiratory illnesses or have a history of unexplained coughs/fever, your doctor may order this test to check for past infection, even if you’ve never had symptoms.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
  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