Pneumococcal Capsular Polysaccharide antibodies (IgG, IgG2)

Description: 
This antibody is one of a group of antibodies commonly referred to as “functional antibodies”. The others in this designation are anti-Haemophilus influenzae type b, anti-Tetanus toxin antibodies. There are 3 anti-pneumococcal antibody assays measuring IgG, IgG2 subclass and serotype specific IgG pneumococcal antibodies.

Functional antibodies are useful tests in the investigation of antibody deficiency especially in those with IgG subclass deficiency and individuals with a history of recurrent infections but normal serum immunoglobulins.

Normal or reference ranges are not internationally agreed. Pneumococcal antibody levels can be difficult to interpret in children. Please contact Immunology if you need help with interpretation of the results.
Reference range: 

None, to be interpreted in the light of the clinical details.

Units: 
mg/L
Department: 
Diagnostic Immunology and Allergy Department
Location: 
King's College Hospital
Sample type and Volume required: 
Clotted (Gold top vacutainer)
Turnaround time: 
28 working days
Special sample instructions: 

All tests are compromised by prolonged transit times. For this reason, date of bleed and date of postage must be provided with each request.

Immunisation history with dates must be given with all requests for specific antibodies.

Criteria for acceptance / rejections of sample
Storage and transport: 
Serum stored at 4°C should be sent by first class post
Time limit for extra tests: 
10 days
Contacts:
Diagnostic Immunology and Allergy Department at King's College Hospital
General Enquiry : 020 3299 8752 / 020 3299 1171
King's College Hospital
Bessemer Wing - 1st Floor
Denmark Hill
London SE5 9RS
For clinical advice or interpretation of results, please contact the laboratory in the first instance.
Laboratory: 
Diagnostic Immunology Laboratory at King's

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Last updated: 07/08/2015