Chlamydia Antibody Screening (Qualitative, Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that may indicate past or potential exposure to *Chlamydia trachomatis*, a common sexually transmitted infection.
["Helps identify possible chlamydia infection by checking for immune system response to the bacteria."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 45107-0
- Short code
- CHLAGCV
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia Ag Cvx Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile endocervical swab in transport medium specific for Chlamydia antigen detection (e.g., Dacron or rayon-tipped swab in EIA-compatible transport tube)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- female
- Age range
- 12–99 years
- Method
- Enzyme immunoassay (EIA) for direct detection of Chlamydia species lipopolysaccharide antigen
- CPT
- 87270
- SNOMED
- 122620004
- Specimen volume
- One endocervical swab specimen collected according to manufacturer's instructions
- Stability
- Store at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours after collection. If testing is delayed beyond 24 hours, freeze at -70°C or below. Do not store at room temperature for extended periods.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, pain during urination, or if you’re at higher risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as having multiple sexual partners or a history of STIs.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a doctor’s office or lab.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result suggests your immune system has recognized *Chlamydia* antibodies, which could mean past infection or exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this sample.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If positive, follow-up testing (like a urine or swab test) may be needed to confirm infection. If negative, further testing or retesting may be advised if symptoms persist or risk factors apply.
Reference range
Negative: No Chlamydia sp antigen detected. Positive: Chlamydia sp antigen detected, suggesting active infection.N/A
Patient should avoid douching, vaginal creams, or spermicidal agents for 24-48 hours prior to specimen collection. Patient should refrain from sexual intercourse for 24 hours before specimen collection. Collect prior to initiation of antibiotic therapy when possible. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Chlamydia Antibodies and Health
Short name
Chlamydia Antibody Screen (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can cause serious complications if untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women or infertility. Early detection helps prevent these risks.
How long does it take to get results?
Can I get false positives or negatives with this test?
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