SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antibody, Total
CPT Code(s):
86769
Turnaround Time:
8 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Sodium Citrate plasma; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
8 hours
Refrigerated:
48 hours
Frozen:
30 days
Clinical Significance
The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antibody, Total test is a clinical test used to detect the presence of antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. This test measures both IgM and IgG antibodies, providing a comprehensive assessment of the patient's immune response to the virus.
The clinical significance and diagnostic use of the SARS-CoV-2 Antibody, Total test include:
1. Infection Confirmation: The presence of IgM and IgG antibodies indicates that the patient has been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and has developed an immune response. This test can be used to confirm a past infection with COVID-19, particularly in cases where molecular tests like PCR were not performed or were inconclusive.
2. Timing of Infection: The SARS-CoV-2 Antibody, Total test can provide information about the timing of infection. IgM antibodies are typically produced during the early stages of infection, while IgG antibodies develop later and are indicative of a more mature immune response. By measuring both antibody types, the test can help determine the stage of infection or the progression of the immune response.
3. Immune Response Evaluation: The presence and levels of IgM and IgG antibodies in the blood can give insights into the patient's immune response to the virus. Higher antibody levels generally indicate a stronger and more sustained immune response. However, the duration and level of antibody protection are still being studied, and the test results should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical information.
4. Vaccine Response Monitoring: The SARS-CoV-2 Antibody, Total test is also used to assess the immune response following COVID-19 vaccination. It can help determine if the patient has developed antibodies in response to the vaccine and provide insights into the effectiveness of the vaccination.
5. Epidemiological Studies: The test is valuable in population-level studies to estimate the prevalence of COVID-19 infections within a community, track the spread of the virus, and evaluate the effectiveness of public health interventions and vaccination campaigns.
It is important to note that the SARS-CoV-2 Antibody, Total test should not be used as a standalone diagnostic tool for acute COVID-19 infection. Molecular tests like PCR are recommended for the diagnosis of active infection. Additionally, the interpretation of antibody test results should consider the timing of the test, the patient's symptoms, and other clinical factors.
In summary, the SARS-CoV-2 Antibody, Total test is a useful tool for confirming past COVID-19 infection, assessing the immune response, monitoring vaccine efficacy, and contributing to epidemiological studies. It provides valuable information about an individual's exposure to the virus and their immune status, aiding in the understanding and management of the COVID-19 pandemic.