Pneumococcal antibodies
| Category | Immunology | ||||||||||||||
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| Test background |
This test measures total IgG antibody levels to streptococcus pneumoniae and is used to assess vaccine responses. It should only be performed as part of the diagnostic work up of suspected primary or secondary antibody deficiency and after Pneumovax (23 valent) carbohydrate vaccine challenge. This test cannot be used to assess T cell independent immunity if the patient has had previous vaccination with the protein conjugate vaccine Prevnar (13 valent) and pneumococcal serotyping should be requested instead. A good overall response may not indicate protection to individual serotypes. This test is performed by ELISA. |
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| Clinical Indications |
Investigation of primary and secondary immunodeficiency |
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| Reference range | Adult reference value = >39 U/mL
Ranges derived by manufacturer and verified in house |
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| Sample & container required | Serum (RST rust top) | ||||||||||||||
| Sample volume | 5-10 mL blood (1 mL serum) | ||||||||||||||
| Turnaround time | 14 days |