Answer
Sep 13, 2023 - 09:40 AM
Yes, 4U Health's Spike Antibody (Spike Ab) test can provide valuable insights into the presence and strength of your antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Here's some important information about our test and how it compares to your previous Lab Corp test:
Detection Threshold: Our test flags "DETECTED" for the presence of (S1) spike protein IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 when the result is greater than 25 RU/ml.
Interpretation: Samples with a "DETECTED" result indicate the presence of antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 S1 spike protein, at the specific numeric level indicated on the report.
Upper Limit Detection: Our test has an upper limit detection of 120 RU/ml from the manufacturer. For samples with robust antibody levels exceeding 120 RU/ml, our lab performs a dilution to accurately report the detected antibody level, up to 1,200 RU/ml. Above 1,200 RU/ml, we report out greater than 1,200 RU/ml. It's important to note that this dilution does not affect the integrity of the results; it simply extends the upper limit for reporting.
Understanding Your Antibody Level:
While the exact antibody level that correlates with COVID-19 immunity has not been determined by the CDC, research suggests that higher antibody levels can provide greater protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death following a COVID-19 infection. As previously mentioned, our test reports antibody levels up to 1,200 RU/ml, offering a comprehensive assessment of your antibody response.
Recent scientific evidence published in reputable journals has shown a correlation between higher antibody levels and increased levels of neutralizing antibodies. These neutralizing antibodies are associated with enhanced protection against infection, reinfection, and severe disease. In light of this evidence, 4U Health has expanded the reportable range of its semi-quantitative assay from 120 RU/ml to 1,200 RU/ml to better capture higher antibody levels.
Fluctuations in Antibody Levels:
It's important to understand that antibody levels are expected to naturally decrease over time after your body clears the spike protein from a previous infection or vaccination. To boost antibody levels, the CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccine booster shots. However, this decision should be made after discussing the risks and benefits with your attending physician.
Comparing Antibody Levels Across Labs:
Please note that there are currently no universally recognized international standardized units or antibody levels for COVID-19 antibody tests approved by the FDA. Therefore, comparing antibody number levels from one lab to another may not provide an apples-to-apples comparison. Antibody levels should only be compared in terms of their relative presence and quantity. It's important to mention that the antibody level reported in 4U Health's Spike Antibody test is based on the EUROIMMUN Anti-SARS-CoV-2 S1 Curve ELISA (IgG) assay and should be compared numerically only to labs using the same assay.
We hope this information clarifies the capabilities of our Spike Antibody test and its comparability to your previous Labcorp test. If you have any further questions or require additional information, please don't hesitate to reach out to us by email (help@4uhealth.com) or telephone (866-610-1200).
