Serum/Plasma RNA Immunoassay for Antibodies to Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) (Qualitative)
This test checks for antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19.
["Detects past or potential immunity to COVID-19 through antibody presence."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13347-0
- Short code
- RNAp I+II+III Ab Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- RNAp I+II+III Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 looks for specific antibodies (immunoglobulins) that your body creates when it encounters the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These antibodies can indicate whether you’ve been exposed to the virus at some point, even if you didn’t develop symptoms or were previously vaccinated. The test is qualitative, meaning it only tells you if antibodies are present or not, rather than measuring their exact amount.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is analyzed using an immunoassay method, which detects antibodies against the virus’s spike protein. This helps determine if your immune system has recognized and responded to the virus, which may suggest prior infection or immune system activation.
When You Might Need This Test
Healthcare providers may recommend this test to assess exposure history, evaluate immune response after vaccination, or monitor individuals at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted to draw blood from a vein, usually in your arm. The process takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate the presence of antibodies, suggesting prior infection or immune response. However, antibody levels can decline over time, and they do not guarantee immunity or protection against future infection. This test is not used to diagnose active COVID-19 but can help understand exposure history or immune status.
Short name
COVID-19 Antibody Test (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test detect COVID-19 if I’m currently sick?
Does having antibodies mean I’m immune to COVID-19?
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