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Pneumococcal antibodies

Category Immunology
Test background

IgG antibody levels to Streptococcus pneumoniae are requested as part of immune deficiency screen for patients with recurrent or opportunistic infections, and should be done alongside tetanus toxoid antibodies. This test measures antibodies to Pneumovax vaccine containing a mix of 23 capsular serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae (polysaccharide antigens). Antibodies measure the T-cell independent immune response. However, this response requires a mature immune system, hence normal values are age related and the test is not indicated in patients under 2 years of age. A good overall response may not indicate protection to individual serotypes.

Clinical Indications

Recurrent infection Primary immunodeficiency

Reference range

Adult reference value
Good Level >39 U/mL

Paediatric reference value
*0-1 year Good level >14 U/ml
1-<2 years Good level >14 U/ml
2-<3 years Good level >19 U/ml
3-<4 years Good level >29 U/ml
4-<10 years Good level >44 U/ml
10-<18 years Good level >39 U/ml

 

Sample & container required RST (rust top)
Sample volume 5-10 mL (1 mL serum)
Turnaround time 14 days
Notes

This test is currently unaccredited due to a recent change in platform.