Chlamydia Antibody Test by Immunoassay (Cerebrospinal Fluid)
This test measures antibodies in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to help detect past or current infection by *Chlamydia trachomatis*, a bacterium that can cause serious neurological or infectious complications if untreated.
["This test helps identify if your immune system has responded to a chlamydia infection in your brain or spinal fluid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27273-2
- Short code
- CHLMCSP
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia Ab Titr CSF IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof CSF collection tubes (polypropylene), tube 3 typically used for serology/immunology
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunofluorescence (IFA)
- CPT
- 86317 (Immunoassay for infectious agent antibody, quantitative, multiple-step method)
- SNOMED
- 71057007
- Specimen volume
- 0.5-1 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 7 days; frozen (-20°C or below) for up to 30 days; avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, fever, confusion, or neurological issues that could suggest meningitis or encephalitis caused by chlamydia. It’s also used in certain high-risk scenarios, such as after exposure to the bacterium or in cases where other tests are inconclusive.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. The test involves a lumbar puncture (spinal tap), where a small amount of CSF is collected from your lower back. You may feel mild pressure or discomfort, but it’s usually over quickly. You’ll be asked to lie still for a short time afterward.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of chlamydia antibodies in your CSF, suggesting a past infection or possible ongoing immune response. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found in this sample. Results alone may not confirm a diagnosis; they’re often combined with clinical symptoms and other tests.
Common Causes of False Results
False positives or negatives can occur due to recent vaccination, other infections, or cross-reactivity with similar bacteria. If results are unclear, your provider may repeat the test or order additional tests to clarify.
Reference range
Titer < 1:1 (Negative). Positive results reported as the highest dilution showing detectable antibody reactivity.N/A
No fasting required. Lumbar puncture performed under sterile conditions by qualified personnel. Inform patient of procedure risks including headache, infection, and bleeding.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Chlamydia Antibody (CSF)
Frequently asked questions
How does this test differ from a blood chlamydia antibody test?
Can I get this test if I’ve had a recent head injury?
What should I do if my test is positive?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy