Skip to content

Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibody, Serum (IgG and IgM)

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

This test checks for antibodies against *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*, a common bacteria that can cause respiratory infections like pneumonia or bronchitis.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose infections caused by *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* in symptoms like cough or fever."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
687-4
Short code
Mycoplas+Ureoplas Spec Cult
Synonyms
Mycoplas+Ureoplas Spec 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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent cough, fever, or chest pain that don’t improve with typical antibiotics. It’s often used in children or adults with unexplained respiratory infections, especially if other tests (like a chest X-ray) suggest a bacterial cause.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for testing, which may take a few days to complete.

What the Test Results Mean

The test measures two types of antibodies (IgG and IgM) produced by your immune system in response to *Mycoplasma pneumoniae*. IgM antibodies appear early in infection and fade over weeks. IgG antibodies develop later and stay in your system longer. High levels of either may indicate past or current infection.

Possible Side Effects

Most people experience no side effects from a blood draw. Rarely, you might feel slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated antibody levels confirm *Mycoplasma pneumoniae* infection, guiding treatment with appropriate antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin). Low or absent levels suggest no current infection or a different cause for your symptoms. This test is particularly useful when other tests (like a throat culture) are inconclusive.

Short name

Mycoplasma pneumoniae antibodies

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results typically take 3–7 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare provider in a clinical setting.
What if my symptoms return after treatment?
If symptoms persist or return, your doctor may repeat the test or order additional tests to check for recurrence or a different infection.
  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