Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibodies, IgM, Serum
Use
This test is useful for screening for IgM antibodies to indicate recent or past exposure to Mycoplasma pneumoniae, which is a common cause of upper respiratory infections, pharyngitis, and tracheobronchitis. It is particularly significant in children and is associated with about 20% of cases of community-acquired pneumonia. It can also cause central nervous system and cardiac complications. The test aids in differentiating recent or acute infection from past exposure.
Special Instructions
This test is not orderable individually and can only be ordered as part of a profile. For specific ordering and additional information, refer to the MYCO / Mycoplasma pneumoniae Antibodies, IgG and IgM, Serum profile.
Limitations
Serology-based assays for Mycoplasma pneumoniae have drawbacks such as the development time for IgM antibodies, which may be variable or decreased in adults and immunosuppressed individuals. IgM serology cannot differentiate between recent and past infections by itself, and clinical evaluation along with other diagnostic procedures should be considered. The performance of this test has not been established for neonates and the immunocompromised, nor tested against a broad range of cross-reactive organisms and serovars.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5257-1
- 5257-1
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914); Preferred: Serum gel, Acceptable: Red top, Submission: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia, Heat inactivated specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |