Mycoplasma pneumoniae antibody detection (qualitative, serum/plasma)
This test checks for antibodies against *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common bacteria linked to respiratory infections like pneumonia.
["Helps diagnose or monitor infections caused by *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14484-0
- Short code
- Mycoplas+Ureoplas Cvx Cult
- Synonyms
- Mycoplas+Ureoplas Cvx Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- 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 Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve had symptoms like cough, fever, or chest pain—especially if you’ve been exposed to someone with a respiratory illness. It’s also used to confirm a suspected *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* infection in people with atypical pneumonia or persistent coughs, particularly in children or those with recurring infections.
How the Test Works
The test detects antibodies (IgM and IgG) produced by your immune system in response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*. IgM appears early in infection and fades over weeks, while IgG persists longer. The result is qualitative (yes/no) rather than measuring exact antibody levels.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The blood is processed into serum or plasma for testing. You may be asked to avoid certain medications (like antibiotics) for a few days before testing, as they could affect results.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications (especially antibiotics) or recent illnesses. If you’re pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have a chronic condition, mention it to your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest recent or past infection with *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, which can cause mild to severe respiratory symptoms. While IgM is more indicative of an acute infection, IgG can indicate past exposure. False positives may occur in rare cases, so confirmatory testing or clinical correlation is often needed. This test is particularly useful for diagnosing infections in people who test negative for other common causes of pneumonia (e.g., *Streptococcus pneumoniae* or *Chlamydia pneumoniae*).
Short name
Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgM/IgG Antibody Test (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long will I get results?
Can I get this test at home?
What if my results are positive?
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