What is the purpose of this test?
The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antibody (IgG), Spike, Semi-Quantitative Blood Test is used to measure IgG antibodies that develop in response to the spike protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These antibodies typically form after infection with COVID-19 or after receiving an mRNA vaccine (such as Pfizer or Moderna). This test provides a semi-quantitative result, meaning it not only tells you if antibodies are present, but it also gives an estimate of how much is in your blood—helping to show your body’s immune response to the virus or vaccine.
This test does not detect active COVID-19 infection. Instead, it helps determine whether your body has produced an immune response due to a past infection or vaccination. It is particularly useful for individuals who want to know if they’ve developed antibodies after vaccination, are curious about past exposure, or need documentation of prior infection. Healthcare professionals may also use this test to help guide decisions about boosters or further preventive measures.
Who should get this test?
- Individuals who want to check for antibodies after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine
- People who suspect they were infected with COVID-19 in the past but were never tested
- Individuals needing proof of past infection for work, travel, or medical purposes
- Healthcare workers and essential employees at higher risk of exposure
- Those with compromised immune systems who want to verify if the vaccine triggered a response
- Participants in clinical studies or public health monitoring of COVID-19 immunity
- People interested in their COVID-19 immunity status after illness recovery
When should I order the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antibody (IgG), Spike, Semi-Quantitative Blood Test?
Individuals may consider ordering this test if they have symptoms or exposure concerns related to COVID-19 in the past.
Symptoms to consider:
- Fever, cough, or shortness of breath that resolved weeks or months ago
- Loss of taste or smell that has since returned
- Feeling extremely tired, achy, or having lingering fatigue
- A suspected or known COVID-19 exposure, even if you were asymptomatic
- Concern about your vaccine response or interest in confirming post-vaccine immunity
If you have experienced these symptoms or suspect a past COVID-19 infection, the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Antibody (IgG), Spike, Semi-Quantitative Blood Test can provide useful information to guide you and your healthcare provider in understanding your immune response and planning next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When should I order this test?
A: For optimal accuracy, order 15+ days after suspected infection or 2-4 weeks after vaccination, as sensitivity reaches 96% after 15 days.
Q: Does a positive result mean I'm protected from COVID-19?
A: CDC guidelines state that antibody testing should not be used to assess protection against infection or determine vaccination needs, as the correlation with immunity remains unclear.
Q: How often should I repeat this test?
A: For monitoring purposes, repeat testing can be performed every 3-6 months to track antibody persistence, though optimal intervals are still under investigation.
Q: What's the difference between this and other COVID antibody tests?
A: This semi-quantitative test provides specific numerical values (AU/mL) rather than just positive/negative results, allowing for more detailed tracking of antibody levels over time.
Q: Can this test tell me if I need a booster shot?
A: While this test shows your current antibody levels, CDC guidelines recommend following standard vaccination schedules regardless of antibody test results.
Results are for informational purposes and should be interpreted in consultation with a healthcare provider. This test is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
