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Coccidioides antibody (IgG) – Serum/Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the level of IgG antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Coccidioides* (a fungal infection). It helps diagnose or monitor coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection spread through the air in certain regions.

Quick summary

["This test helps doctors detect if you’ve been exposed to the *Coccidioides* fungus or if an infection is active or resolved."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59049-7
Short code
Coccidioides Ab.IgG + IgM Pnl Spec
Synonyms
Coccidioides Ab.IgG + IgM Pnl Spec
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you live in or have traveled to areas where *Coccidioides* is common (e.g., parts of the southwestern U.S., Central/South America, Australia, or Africa). They may also recommend it if you have symptoms like fever, cough, chest pain, or fatigue—especially if you’ve had recent exposure to dust or soil. It can also be used to track treatment progress or rule out infection in people with other health conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know beforehand.

What the Test Results Mean

Positive results indicate your immune system has detected *Coccidioides* antibodies, suggesting past exposure or infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, but this doesn’t always rule out infection if it was recent. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and travel history.

Possible Side Effects

Most people experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, blood tests can cause allergic reactions or fainting. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded after the test, rest for a few minutes before resuming activities.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG Antibody to Coccidioides

Frequently asked questions

This test is critical for diagnosing coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection that can cause mild respiratory symptoms or severe complications (e.g., lung damage, meningitis) in some cases. It helps guide treatment decisions, such as antifungal medications or monitoring for chronic infections.
How long will it take to get my results? Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you with the final report.
What does a ‘positive’ result mean for my health? A positive IgG test means you’ve likely had exposure to *Coccidioides* at some point, but it doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected. If you have symptoms, your doctor may order additional tests (e.g., IgA or culture) to assess active infection.
Can I still get infected even if my test is negative? Yes, *Coccidioides* can cause infection even if antibodies aren’t detectable immediately, especially if exposure was recent. Symptoms may develop weeks or months later, so ongoing monitoring may be advised.
Do I need to avoid certain activities if I have a positive test? If your test is positive but you’re asymptomatic, no special precautions are needed. However, if you develop symptoms (e.g., persistent cough, fever), avoid high-risk activities like dusty work or outdoor projects in endemic areas until cleared by your doctor.
Is this test covered by insurance? Most insurance plans cover this test as medically necessary for diagnosis or monitoring of suspected coccidioidomycosis. Check with your provider to confirm coverage details.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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