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Saureustsst1abserql

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

This blood test detects antibodies against Toxic Shock Syndrome Toxin 1 (TSST-1), a toxin produced by certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.

Quick summary

{"Detects immune response to toxic shock syndrome toxin","Used to help diagnose toxic shock syndrome (TSS)","Results indicate past or recent exposure to TSST-1","Positive results may require urgent medical attention"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
23936-8
Short code
TSST-1 Ab
Synonyms
S aureus TSST-1 Ab Ser Ql
Category
cardiac
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or Chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA)
CPT
86635
SNOMED
7812000
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL of serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
40
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Toxic Shock Syndrome Toxin-1 (TSST-1) antibody test is a blood test that looks for antibodies in your serum that your immune system produces in response to the TSST-1 toxin. This toxin is produced by some strains of Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria and can cause a severe, life-threatening condition called Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).

Why do I need this test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome, which can include high fever, rash, low blood pressure, multi-organ involvement (affecting kidneys, liver, heart, etc.), and peeling skin. TSS can be associated with tampon use, wounds, surgical sites, or other staph infections. The test helps determine if your body has been exposed to the TSST-1 toxin.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood will be sent to a laboratory to detect the presence of antibodies against TSST-1. The results are typically reported as 'Positive' (antibodies detected) or 'Negative' (no antibodies detected).

What do the results mean?

A positive result indicates that you have antibodies to TSST-1, which could mean you have been exposed to the toxin. However, having antibodies does not always mean you have active TSS—some people may have antibodies from a past exposure without active disease. A negative result suggests no detectable antibodies, but this does not completely rule out TSS, especially early in the infection when antibodies may not yet have developed. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in the context of your symptoms and clinical situation.

Reference range

Negative or Not Detected - Absence of detectable TSST-1 IgG antibodies suggests no prior exposure to Staphylococcus aureus Toxic Shock Syndrome Toxin 1. Positive or Detected indicates presence of IgG antibodies indicating previous or recent exposure to TSST-1.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is TSS the same as a regular staph infection?
No. While both are caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria, a regular staph infection is typically a localized infection. TSS occurs when certain strains of staph produce the TSST-1 toxin, which enters the bloodstream and causes a systemic, life-threatening reaction affecting multiple organs.
Can I get TSS from a positive antibody result?
No, having antibodies to TSST-1 does not mean you have active TSS. Antibodies indicate your immune system has been exposed to the toxin at some point. However, if you develop symptoms of TSS, seek medical attention immediately.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is typically required for this blood test. You can eat and drink normally before having your blood drawn.
Is this test related to tampon use?
Yes, historically TSS was associated with prolonged use of highly absorbent tampons. While still possible, cases are now more commonly associated with other risk factors such as surgical wounds, burns, or other staph infections. Regardless of the source, the test detects the same TSST-1 antibody.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic - Toxic Shock SyndromeSource
  2. 2
    CDC - Toxic Shock SyndromeSource

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