Chlamydia Antibody Test (Urine) – Screening
This test checks for antibodies to *Chlamydia trachomatis*, a common bacterial infection that can affect the reproductive system, causing symptoms like pain, discharge, or bleeding. It helps detect past or current infections that may not show symptoms.
["A urine test can help identify chlamydia infection, even when symptoms aren’t present."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108416-9
- Short code
- CHLAGU
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia Ag Msmt Ur
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof urine collection container; sterile screw-capped transport tube without preservatives for antigen testing
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 12 years
- Method
- Immunochromatographic assay / Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) for direct detection of Chlamydia species antigen
- CPT
- 87810
- SNOMED
- 441875007
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 10 mL; optimal 20-30 mL of first-catch urine
- Stability
- Ambient temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24-48 hours; Frozen (-70°C or below): up to 30 days. Refrigerate immediately if testing is delayed beyond 2 hours. Do not freeze at -20°C.
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have risk factors for chlamydia, such as new or multiple sexual partners, or if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, pain during urination, or pelvic pain. It’s also part of routine screening for sexually active individuals under certain guidelines.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely provide a midstream urine sample in a clinic or lab setting. If done at home, follow the kit instructions carefully. Avoid urinating for about an hour before testing if instructed.
How the Test Works
The test detects antibodies in your urine that your immune system produces in response to chlamydia infection. These antibodies are signs that your body has encountered the bacteria, even if the infection is inactive or resolved.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means your urine contains antibodies to chlamydia, suggesting past or current infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing. Results should always be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Reference range
Negative (Chlamydia sp antigen not detected). Positive results indicate the presence of Chlamydia species antigen in urine specimen.N/A
Patient should not have urinated for at least 1-2 hours prior to specimen collection. First-catch urine (first 20-30 mL of urine stream) is preferred to maximize recovery of chlamydial elementary bodies. Patient should be instructed on proper clean-catch technique.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Chlamydia Antibody Urine Screen
Frequently asked questions
How soon can I expect results?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I still have sex while waiting for 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy