Antibody Serology Tests

Antibody serology tests look for specific antibodies in your blood. Antibodies are proteins your immune system makes to fight disease-causing germs (also called pathogens), such as viruses and bacteria. Your immune system creates antibodies after you've been: Infected with or exposed to a pathogen.; Vaccinated against a pathogen.; In both cases, your body stores the antibodies so that they can fight that pathogen if you're ever exposed to it again.

A vaccine, however, teaches your body how to make antibodies before you're ever exposed to a pathogen. This way, you don't have to get an infection before developing immunity. It may take a few weeks for your body to make antibodies after you have had an infection, been exposed to a pathogen, or had a vaccine.

Why this test is done

You may need this test:

• To find out if you've had a recent or past infection.
• To check your vaccination status. If your medical records are incomplete, you may need this test to find out if you've been vaccinated.
• To find out if a vaccine is effective. If you've already been vaccinated against a disease, the test can show if your vaccine is providing enough protection.
• As a requirement for your school or job. Some organizations may require proof of past infection or vaccination.
• To find out if you have an autoimmune disease, such as lupus.
• If you're receiving any treatment that involves monoclonal antibodies.

How to prepare

You don't need any special preparations for an antibody serology test.

Sample type

Blood

Other names for this test

antibody titer test, antibody test, antibody serum test