Chlamydia Antibody, Serologic Test (Qualitative or Semi-Quantitative)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Chlamydia trachomatis*, a common bacterial infection often spread through sexual contact.
["Helps identify past or current infection by detecting your body’s immune response to chlamydia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 16589-4
- Short code
- CHLSPAB
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia Ab Ser IF-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top vacutainer tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunofluorescence (IFA)
- CPT
- 86631
- SNOMED
- 31371003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of chlamydia (such as unusual discharge, pain during urination, or pelvic pain) or if you’ve been exposed to the infection. It’s also used as part of routine screening for sexually active individuals at higher risk.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample to detect antibodies (proteins) your body makes after being exposed to chlamydia. The method may involve immunoassay techniques to identify these antibodies, though exact results may be qualitative (yes/no) or semi-quantitative (approximate levels).
Sample Collection and Preparation
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm, typically in a clinic or lab setting. The blood is processed and tested for chlamydia-specific antibodies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally before the test, but inform your healthcare provider if you’re on blood-thinning medications or have bleeding disorders.
Reference range
Negative: <1:10 titer; Positive: ≥1:10 titer (varies by laboratory)N/A
No special patient preparation required. Specimen should be collected before initiation of antibiotic therapy when possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Chlamydia Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
If positive, this test confirms your body has been exposed to chlamydia, which can cause serious health issues like pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or complications during pregnancy. Treatment with antibiotics can clear the infection.
A negative result means your body did not detect chlamydia antibodies at this time, but you may still be infected without symptoms. Repeat testing may be recommended if you suspect exposure.
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 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