Meningitis (Meningococcal) Titer Blood Test

Sample Report Test Code: 15903 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Meningitis (Meningococcal) Titer Blood Test (Quest)

This test measures IgG antibodies that typically develop in response to vaccination for meningococcal disease, commonly known as meningitis.  Meningitis is actually a family of diseases caused by infection with the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis.  Meningitis is spread through the oral or nasal secretions of people who are infected.  The most common cause of infection is being in close contact with someone who is already infected.  Meningococcal infections can cause serious health complications and in many cases prove fatal when not properly treated.  In the USA it is common for most people to be vaccinated for meningitis when they are preteens or teenagers. 

There are several varieties of meningococcal vaccines.  There is more than one type of Neisseria meningitidis serotype and most vaccines offer protection against multiple types.  The type of vaccine a person receives may depend on their age and any underlying medical conditions they have.  Meningitis vaccines don't always offer lifetime protection and some people may need to get vaccinated again later in life, especially if they in close contact with people who have been infected or are traveling to areas where infections are prevalent.  Titer blood testing can be useful for determining if someone who has been vaccinated still has protective antibodies or ensuring that a recent vaccination was effective.  This blood test looks for IgG antibodies to 4 common meningococcal serotypes A, C, Y, and W-135.  These serotypes are included in the MenACWY vaccine.

This test does not look for antibodies to Meningitis B.  Before taking this test, you should check that the serotypes it looks for correspond to the type of vaccine you received.  

This test is performed one day a week and can take up to 8 business days to complete.  The turnaround can range from 3-14 business days.

Where can I find a Meningitis (Meningococcal) Titer test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.