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Chicken Feather IgG Antibody Test

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This blood test checks for IgG antibodies directed against proteins found in chicken feathers, helping your doctor diagnose certain heart and lung conditions that can develop after repeated exposure to birds.

Quick summary

{"A simple blood test that detects IgG antibodies to chicken feather antigens","Used to diagnose conditions like hypersensitivity pneumonitis from bird exposure","Results help doctors identify if your symptoms are related to bird feather allergies","The test requires a blood sample drawn from a vein","Positive results indicate exposure to bird proteins and potential immune response"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109180-0
Short code
CHK FEATHER IGG
Synonyms
Chicken Feather IgG Msmt Ser
Category
cardiac
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
2
Ref high
3.5
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)
CPT
86003
SNOMED
424150003
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL of serum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
40
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Chicken Feather IgG Antibody test is a blood test that measures the level of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies specifically targeting proteins found in chicken feathers. IgG antibodies are part of your immune system's memory response. When your body is exposed to certain antigens (like bird feather proteins), it produces these antibodies as part of an immune reaction.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed to detect and measure the levels of IgG antibodies specific to chicken feather antigens. The test does not require fasting or any special preparation.

Why is it ordered?

Although categorized under cardiac testing, this test is primarily used to help diagnose bird-related hypersensitivity pneumonitis (also known as bird fancier's lung or farmer's lung disease). This condition occurs when repeated exposure to bird feathers or droppings triggers an allergic reaction in the lungs, which can sometimes affect heart function. The test helps your doctor determine if your respiratory or cardiac symptoms are related to exposure to bird proteins.

What do the results mean?

Results are typically reported as positive or negative, or may show antibody levels. A positive result indicates that IgG antibodies to chicken feather proteins were detected in your blood, suggesting recent or past exposure to bird antigens and an immune response. Your doctor will interpret these results in conjunction with your symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic tests.

Reference range

Negative: < 2.0 kU/L; Equivocal: 2.0-3.5 kU/L; Positive: > 3.5 kU/L (laboratory-specific reference ranges may apply)N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Patient may eat and drink normally before sample collection. Inform the laboratory of any current medications, especially immunosuppressants or antihistamines, as these may affect results.

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?
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, always follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Is the test painful?
You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood. The discomfort is usually minimal and lasts only a few seconds. Some people may experience slight bruising at the puncture site afterward.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of IgG antibodies against chicken feather proteins. This suggests exposure to bird antigens and an immune response. However, a positive result alone does not always mean you have an active disease. Your doctor will interpret the result along with your symptoms, physical examination, and other test findings.
Do I need to avoid birds before the test?
Do not change your normal activities or exposure before the test unless specifically instructed by your doctor. The test is designed to detect your current or past exposure status.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Hypersensitivity PneumonitisSource
  2. 2
    American Lung Association - Bird Fancier's LungSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic - Hypersensitivity PneumonitisSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy