Chlamydia Antibody Screening (Qualitative, Serum/Plasma)
This test detects antibodies to *Chlamydia trachomatis*, a common bacterial infection that can affect the reproductive system, throat, or eyes. It helps identify past or current exposure.
["A simple blood test to check for signs of chlamydia infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 45132-8
- Short code
- CHLMAGNP
- Synonyms
- Chlamydia Ag Nph Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile flocked or polyester nasopharyngeal swab placed in viral transport medium (VTM), universal transport medium (UTM), or Chlamydia-specific transport medium
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–99 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (e.g., enzyme immunoassay, lateral flow immunoassay, or chemiluminescent immunoassay)
- CPT
- 87810
- SNOMED
- 441879-8
- Specimen volume
- 1 nasopharyngeal swab in 1-3 mL transport medium
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 48 hours. Frozen (-70°C or below): up to 30 days for extended storage. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 1–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to serious health problems if untreated, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or complications during pregnancy. Early detection through antibody screening supports timely treatment and prevention of complications.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may receive this test as part of routine screening, especially if you have symptoms like unusual discharge, pain during urination, or if you’re sexually active with multiple partners. No special preparation is needed, but inform your healthcare provider about any medications or conditions that could affect results.
How the Test Works
The test uses a blood sample to detect antibodies produced by your immune system in response to chlamydia. These antibodies indicate past infection or exposure, though they may not always confirm an active infection. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than quantifying antibody levels.
What the Results Mean
A positive result suggests you may have been exposed to chlamydia in the past, but it does not always mean you currently have an active infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time. Follow-up testing or clinical evaluation may be recommended if symptoms persist or if you suspect recent exposure.
Reference range
Negative (Chlamydia sp antigen not detected). Positive results indicate the presence of Chlamydia sp antigen in the nasopharyngeal specimen.N/A
No fasting required. Avoid eating, drinking, or using nasal sprays or gargles for at least 30 minutes prior to specimen collection. Inform the healthcare provider of any recent antibiotic therapy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Chlamydia Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I get treated if I test positive?
How often should I get retested?
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