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SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Titration (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the strength of your immune response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, by detecting antibodies in your blood. It helps determine how your body has reacted to infection over time.

Quick summary

["This test assesses your immune system’s response to COVID-19 and may help track recovery or exposure history."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60426-4
Short code
SARS-CoV Ab Titr Ser
Synonyms
SARS-CoV Ab Titr Ser
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 Does This Test Measure?

The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Antibodies are proteins that help your body recognize and fight infections. This test specifically evaluates the concentration (or 'titer') of these antibodies, which can vary depending on when you were infected or vaccinated.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Healthcare providers may order this test if you’ve had COVID-19 symptoms, received a COVID-19 vaccine, or are being monitored for past exposure. It can also be used in research or clinical studies to assess immune response over time.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested in a laboratory using a specialized immunoassay method to measure antibody levels. Results are reported as a numerical titer value, indicating the strength of your immune response.

What Do the Results Mean?

Results are qualitative (not a specific number) and indicate whether your antibody levels are detectable. A positive result suggests your immune system has recognized the virus, but it does not confirm active infection. Interpretation depends on clinical context, such as timing since exposure or vaccination.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

COVID-19 Antibody Test (Titration)

Frequently asked questions

How long do antibodies last after COVID-19?
Antibody levels can persist for months or years after infection or vaccination, but they may gradually decrease over time. This test helps track changes in your immune response, though it does not replace other diagnostic tests for active infection.
Can this test tell me if I had COVID-19 without symptoms?
Yes, this test can detect antibodies even if you had mild or asymptomatic infection. However, a negative result does not definitively rule out past exposure, as antibody levels may be low or absent in some individuals.
Is this test the same as a rapid COVID-19 antigen test?
No, this is a laboratory-based antibody titration test, which measures antibody strength over time. Rapid antigen tests detect the virus itself, not antibodies, and are used for active infection screening.
  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