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Serotype-Specific IgG Antibody to Pneumococcal Polysaccharides by Immunoassay (Serum)

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

This test measures your immune system’s response to different types of pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause serious infections like pneumonia, meningitis, or bloodstream infections. It helps assess whether your body has developed protective antibodies against these bacteria.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate your immunity to common pneumococcal strains and guides decisions about vaccination or booster recommendations."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42360-8
Short code
S pneum 14 serotypes IgG Pnl A Ser-mCnc
Synonyms
S pneum 14 serotypes IgG Pnl A Ser-mCnc
Category
coagulation
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a history of pneumococcal infections, are at high risk for complications (e.g., elderly, immunocompromised, or with chronic health conditions), or if you’re considering vaccination against pneumococcal disease. It may also be used to monitor immune response after vaccination.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from a vein, typically in a clinic or lab. The blood is processed to separate serum for testing.

What the Test Results Mean

Results show the presence and level of IgG antibodies against specific pneumococcal serotypes. Higher levels indicate a stronger immune response, but exact thresholds vary by serotype and clinical context. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used to confirm immunity before procedures that increase infection risk (e.g., invasive medical devices) or to evaluate vaccine effectiveness in people with weakened immune systems.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Pneumococcal IgG Antibody Levels

Frequently asked questions

How does this test differ from a general pneumococcal antibody screen?
This test specifically measures antibodies against 14 common pneumococcal serotypes (e.g., types 1, 3, 5, 6A/B, 7F, 9V, 14, 18C, 19A/F, 23F). A general screen might use a broader or different assay method. Your provider may use this test to tailor recommendations for specific serotype-based vaccines.
What if my test results are low for certain serotypes?
Low levels for specific serotypes may indicate a weaker immune response to those bacteria. This could prompt vaccination with a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (e.g., PCV13 or PCV20) to boost protection against those serotypes, especially if you’re at high risk for infection.
Can this test be used to diagnose an active pneumococcal infection?
No, this test measures past or current immune response, not active infection. For diagnosing active pneumococcal disease, other tests (e.g., blood cultures, sputum analysis, or PCR) are typically used alongside clinical symptoms.
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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