ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Legionella pneumophila Antibody (Types 1-6), IgM by IFA : 0050274

Mnemonic: LEGAB1-6M

Methodology: Semi-Quantitative Indirect Fluorescent Antibody
Performed: Mon-Fri
Reported: 1-4 days
Specimen Required: Collect: Serum separator tube.

Specimen Preparation: Separate serum from cell ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 1 mL serum to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.1 mL) Parallel testing is preferred and convalescent specimens must be received within 30 days from receipt of the acute specimens. Mark specimens plainly as acute or convalescent.

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Unacceptable Conditions: Contaminated, heat-inactivated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): After separation from cells: Ambient: 48 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles)

Reference Interval:
< 1:16
Interpretive Data: IgM antibody to Legionella pneumophila serotypes 1-6 is measured using an IgM-specific conjugate.  It is recommended that the IgM test always be performed in conjunction with IgG antibody test.

The IgM response to Legionella tends to develop concurrently with the IgG response and may remain elevated as long as the IgG response remains elevated.  Cross-reactions have been described with several species of bacteria and Mycoplasma.
CPT Code(s): 86713