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Understanding This Test: A Patient's Guide to What It Is, Why It Is Done, and What the Results Mean

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

This blood test detects antibodies against toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 and staphylococcal enterotoxin B, which are produced by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.

Quick summary

{"Detects antibodies to two toxins made by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria","Helps diagnose toxic shock syndrome and staphylococcal food poisoning","A positive result indicates current or recent exposure to these toxins","The test uses a blood sample from your arm","Results are typically reported as positive, negative, or indeterminate"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50683-2
Short code
TSST-1/SEB Ab
Synonyms
S aureus TSST-1+Etx B 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
0–120 years
Method
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or Chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)
CPT
86635
SNOMED
122442004
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL of serum
Stability
Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 72 hours; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test, and what is it used to check or measure in my body?

This test checks your blood for antibodies against two specific toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria: toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 (TSST-1) and staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB). Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes to fight harmful substances. Finding these antibodies in your blood can help doctors determine if you have been exposed to these bacterial toxins.

Why might my healthcare provider recommend this test for me?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of toxic shock syndrome (TSS) or staphylococcal food poisoning. Symptoms of TSS include high fever, rash, low blood pressure, and organ failure. Symptoms of staphylococcal food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. This test helps confirm whether these conditions are caused by Staphylococcus aureus toxins.

How is this test performed, and what should I expect during the procedure?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where it is tested for the presence of antibodies against TSST-1 and SEB. The test does not require any special preparation, such as fasting.

What do my test results mean, and how will they help guide my care?

Results are typically reported as positive, negative, or indeterminate. A positive result means antibodies were detected in your blood, indicating you have been exposed to these toxins. A negative result means no antibodies were detected, which could mean you have not been exposed or that the infection is very recent and antibodies have not yet developed. Your doctor will interpret your results in combination with your symptoms and other test findings.

Reference range

Negative / Not Detected - Antibody levels below the cutoff threshold indicate no significant immune response to TSST-1 or SEBN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Standard venipuncture procedure. Patient may eat and drink normally before sample collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is the test painful?
You may feel a brief pinch or sting when the needle is inserted to draw your blood. This is generally well tolerated, and the procedure only takes a few minutes.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No, you do not need to fast or make any special preparations before this blood test.
What happens if my result is positive?
A positive result indicates exposure to Staphylococcus aureus toxins. Your doctor will discuss treatment options with you, which may include antibiotics, supportive care, and addressing any underlying infections. Prompt treatment is important for a full recovery.
Can this test tell if I have an active infection?
This test detects antibodies, which indicate your immune system has responded to the toxins. It may not definitively distinguish between a current or past infection. Your doctor will consider your symptoms and possibly order additional tests to confirm an active infection.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Toxic Shock SyndromeSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Staphylococcal Food PoisoningSource
  3. 3
    CDC - Staphylococcal Food PoisoningSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy