Answer
Sep 13, 2023 - 08:36 AM
Yes, the Comprehensive COVID-19 Antibody Test does differentiate Nucleocapsid antibodies from Spike antibodies. The test provides separate analysis and reporting for these two types of antibodies. The test is designed to tell you if you had a previous natural COVID-19 infection while also providing your spike antibody score, useful to quantify the strength of your current antibodies.
Nucleocapsid COVID-19 Antibody Test
The nucleocapsid portion of the kit is a test to confirm if you had COVID. A positive nucleocapsid antibody test result is used to identify a previous natural COVID-19 infection. Nucleocapsid antibodies are reported as either "detected" or "not detected." If the test detects Nucleocapsid antibodies in your sample, it suggests that you have been infected with the virus at some point in the past, as these antibodies are only produced by the body as a result of a prior natural infection. For the most accurate results, we recommend collecting your sample ideally at least 1 month after your suspected infection.
Spike COVID-19 Antibody Test
On the other hand, the Spike COVID antibody section of the test reports as 'detected' or 'not detected' and provides your total spike antibody score. Spike antibodies can result from both natural infection and previous vaccination. If you've been vaccinated, your antibody score may include antibodies from both sources, so the spike portion of the test cannot be used to tell you if you had COVID. If you haven't been vaccinated, a 'detected' result indicates a past natural COVID infection, as your score reflects antibodies produced solely from a natural infection. It's worth noting that a higher score is often associated with better preparedness to combat a future COVID-19 infection.
In summary, the Comprehensive COVID-19 Antibody Test differentiates between Nucleocapsid and Spike antibodies. It helps identify whether you have had a prior natural infection and provides your antibody score, which offers useful insight into your body's antibody response to either a prior vaccination or natural infection.
