Bartonellaiggmsmtser
A blood test that detects IgG antibodies against Bartonella bacteria, used to diagnose infections such as cat-scratch disease.
{"Detects IgG antibodies to Bartonella bacteria in blood","Helps diagnose cat-scratch disease and other Bartonella infections","A positive result indicates past or current infection","Test requires a blood sample drawn from a vein","Results are typically available within a few days"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109264-2
- Short code
- BARTG
- Synonyms
- Bartonella IgG Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 64
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) or Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for detection of IgG antibodies against Bartonella species
- CPT
- 86611
- SNOMED
- 122450004
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Serum stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for prolonged storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 40
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Bartonella IgG antibody test is a blood test that detects IgG antibodies specifically produced by your immune system in response to Bartonella bacteria infection. IgG antibodies are the most common type of antibody in the blood and typically appear later in an infection, providing long-term immunity.
Why is this test performed?
This test is primarily ordered to help diagnose Bartonella infections, most commonly cat-scratch disease (CSD), which is caused by Bartonella henselae. Cats, especially kittens, can carry these bacteria and transmit them through scratches, bites, or flea bites. The test may also be used to detect other Bartonella-related illnesses such as trench fever (Bartonella quintana) and bacillary angiomatosis.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood will be sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed to detect the presence and level of IgG antibodies against Bartonella. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the puncture site, but serious complications are rare.
What do the results mean?
A positive IgG result indicates that you have been exposed to Bartonella bacteria at some point. A negative result suggests no current or past infection, though it may take 2-4 weeks after initial exposure for antibodies to become detectable. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results along with your symptoms and medical history to make an accurate diagnosis.
Are there any risks?
The risks associated with this test are minimal and include slight bleeding, bruising, or infection at the needle site. Some people may feel dizzy or faint during or after the blood draw. These symptoms usually resolve quickly.
Reference range
Negative: <1:64 titer; Equivocal: 1:64-1:128; Positive: ≥1:256. Interpretation depends on clinical context and timing of specimen collection.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any recent antibiotic use, immunosuppressive therapy, or vaccination history that may affect antibody response.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
What happens if my result is positive?
Can the test detect early infection?
Do I need to repeat the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy