Diphtheria antibodies (immunity)
Microbiology
Notes
- The information given here is intended for use by healthcare professionals. Please see Lab Tests Online-UK for more general advice, links and background.
- This test is used to detect response to vaccine
- This may be a surrogate marker of immune compromise
Sample requirements
Serum - paired samples not required
8.5ml of blood taken into a plain gel tube
Required information
- Relevant clinical details
- Vaccine history
- History of immune compromise
Storage/transport
Store at fridge temperature
Transport as soon as possible at ambient temperature
Turnaround time
Sent to a National Reference Centre
21 days
Result Interpretation
Results are reported in International Units/mL and classified as:
- individual is susceptible: <0.016 IU/mL
- levels conferring some protection: 0.016 to 0.09 IU/mL
- protective levels: 0.1 to 0.9 IU/mL
- levels conferring long-term protection: >1 IU/mL