Skip to content

Serum or Plasma Mass Concentration of Neopterin

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

This test measures the amount of neopterin, a chemical produced by the body in response to inflammation or immune system activation.

Quick summary

["Neopterin helps assess immune response and inflammation levels in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27118-9
Short code
S pneum Da 6B IgG Ser-mCnc
Synonyms
S pneum Da 6B IgG 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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order neopterin testing to evaluate conditions involving chronic inflammation, immune system dysfunction, or infections. It can also help monitor treatment responses in certain diseases, such as autoimmune disorders or infections like tuberculosis.

What Does a High or Low Level Mean?

Elevated neopterin levels often indicate an active immune response, such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. Lower levels may suggest reduced immune activity or conditions like HIV progression. However, individual results depend on clinical context and other tests.

Sample Collection and Preparation

This test requires a blood sample drawn from a vein. The blood is typically processed into serum (after clotting) or plasma (using an anticoagulant). The sample is then sent to a lab for measurement using a specialized analytical technique.

Common Conditions Monitored

Neopterin is commonly monitored in patients with chronic infections, autoimmune diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis), inflammatory conditions, or those undergoing immune-related treatments. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Neopterin is a biomarker that reflects oxidative stress and immune activation. Elevated levels can signal ongoing inflammation, infection, or malignancy, but they are not specific to any single condition. Results should be interpreted alongside clinical findings, symptoms, and other diagnostic tests.

Short name

Neopterin

Frequently asked questions

What causes neopterin levels to change?
Neopterin levels can rise due to infections (e.g., viral, bacterial), autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, rheumatoid arthritis), or certain cancers. Stress, smoking, or chronic conditions like diabetes may also influence levels, but individual factors determine variations.
How soon will I get results?
Results typically take 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they are ready. Follow-up may include additional tests or discussions about next steps.
Can I influence my neopterin levels?
While lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and smoking can indirectly affect inflammation, neopterin levels are primarily driven by immune activity. Your provider may recommend adjustments to manage underlying conditions affecting your results.
  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