Spike Protein Antibody Test

Antibody testing could be a vital tool for determining if an individual has antibodies against the COVID-19 virus. Presence of antibodies can occur if an individual has already been infected with the virus or has had a Covid-19 vaccine and might have immunity to the virus . Serology testing for SARS-CoV-2 is at increased demand in order to better quantify the number of cases of COVID-19, including those individuals who may be asymptomatic or have recovered or have taken the vaccine.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has said there are three use cases for serological tests:

• Test results can be used to valuate and quantify a vaccine-induced  immune response to spike protein in RBD (Receptor Binding Domain) containing vaccines such as Moderna and Pfizer.

• They could identify individuals who have recovered to see if they can donate plasma that may be used as a treatment for people with severe forms of the disease caused by the novel coronavirus

• Help determine if people can safely return to work

What is the NEW Coronavirus Antibody Test?

Our Urgent Care centers are now offering enhanced testing using Roche Elecsys® SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody test to target antibodies against the coronavirus spike protein that may be more likely to confer immunity. Spike protein plays a crucial role in penetrating the host cells and initiating Covid-19 infection. Test detects antibodies to the RBD (Receptor Binding Domain) of the spike protein. Studies show that antibodies against the RBD are neutralizing, which may indicate that these proteins are an effective measure of immunity.

Novel Coronavirus Structure

How accurate is the new Coronavirus test?

Roche Elecsys® SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody test features market-leading sensitivity and specificity. Sensitivity and specificity matter because tests without extremely high accuracy could lead to large numbers of incorrect results.

• 96.6% sensitivity‡ and 100% specificity—one of the highest dual rates for SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests in the market.

• Releasing a standalone SARS-CoV-2 IgG test and not a combined IgG-IgM may be more clinically informative

How is the specimen collected?

Specimen is collected by drawing blood.

How do I check my test results?

Test results are lab dependent and can take 1-3 days. You can log in to the lab’s patient portal to check your test results. 

To check you results  go to sunrise.luminatehealth.com

Dr. Perretta’s interview on Covid-19

Watch a video by WHO on how to wash your hands.