Serum SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibody (Quantitative)
This test measures the level of antibodies (IgG) your body produces in response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. IgG antibodies are part of your immune system’s long-term defense against infection.
["IgG antibodies help your body remember the virus for future protection after an infection has passed."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 42956-3
- Short code
- SARS-CoV IgM Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV IgM 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
- CPT
- 82784
- 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?
IgG antibodies are a type of antibody your immune system creates after you’ve been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. They develop several weeks after infection and can stay in your system for months or longer, providing long-term immunity. This test helps determine if your body has produced these antibodies, which may indicate past infection.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test to confirm past COVID-19 infection, assess immunity in vaccinated individuals, or evaluate immune response in people who’ve recovered from COVID-19. It’s also sometimes used in research or clinical studies to track antibody levels over time.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method, which detects the presence and concentration of IgG antibodies specific to SARS-CoV-2.
What Are the Possible Results?
Results are typically reported as a quantitative measurement of antibody concentration. A positive result means detectable IgG antibodies are present, suggesting past infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, which may indicate no prior infection or insufficient time since exposure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have this test if I’m currently sick with COVID-19?
What does a low or undetectable antibody level mean?
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