Chlamydia Antibody Test (Genital Specimen) – Immunoassay
This test detects antibodies in your genital fluid that may indicate past or current infection with *Chlamydia trachomatis*, a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection.
["Helps identify potential infection linked to genital symptoms or exposure history."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6346-1
- Short code
- CHLAG
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia Ag Genital Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile transport swab in viral/chlamydia transport medium
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–99 years
- Method
- Direct Immunofluorescence Assay (DFA)
- CPT
- 87270
- SNOMED
- 314529007
- Specimen volume
- One genital swab specimen (endocervical, urethral, or vaginal)
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; Frozen (-70°C): 30 days
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–48 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 lower abdominal pain. It’s also used for screening in sexually active individuals, especially those with multiple partners or recent exposure to STIs. Some providers may include it as part of routine STI testing, particularly in high-risk groups.
How the Test Works
The test uses an immunoassay method to detect specific antibodies in your genital fluid. These antibodies develop after your body has encountered the *Chlamydia* bacteria, either from a past infection or exposure. The presence of these antibodies suggests an immune response to the infection.
Sample Collection
A healthcare provider will collect a sample of genital fluid, often from the cervix (in women) or urethra (in men). The sample is then sent to a lab for testing. You may be asked to avoid urinating before the test to ensure accurate results.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re pregnant, have a vaginal infection, or are on certain medications that could affect results. Avoid sexual activity for 24–48 hours before testing if instructed, as it may impact sample quality.
Reference range
Negative: No Chlamydia sp. elementary or reticulate bodies detected. Positive: Chlamydia sp. antigen present.N/A
Patient should avoid urinating for at least 1 hour prior to specimen collection. Refrain from douching, vaginal creams, or sexual intercourse for 24 hours before collection.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Chlamydia Antibody Screen (Genital)
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used to identify past or current *Chlamydia* infection, which can cause serious health issues if untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), infertility, or complications during pregnancy. While antibodies indicate exposure, they don’t always confirm an active infection. Follow-up testing (e.g., culture or PCR) may be needed for diagnosis.
What does a positive result mean? A positive result suggests you may have had exposure to *Chlamydia* and developed an immune response. Further testing is often needed to confirm an active infection and guide treatment.
Does this test detect active infection? No, this test detects antibodies, which indicate past or past-recent exposure. For active infection confirmation, additional tests like culture or PCR are recommended.
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