Serum Antibody Screening for *Coccidioides* (IgG)
This test checks for antibodies in your blood that may indicate exposure to *Coccidioides*, a fungus found in certain soil types in parts of the southwestern U.S. and other regions.
["A simple blood test to help determine if you’ve been exposed to a fungal infection that can affect the lungs or other organs."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33379-9
- Short code
- Coccidioides Ab Ser Ql CF
- Synonyms
- Coccidioides Ab Ser Ql CF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- comp-fix
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects IgG antibodies produced by your immune system in response to *Coccidioides* infection. These antibodies develop after exposure and can remain in your blood for months or years. This screening is not a definitive diagnosis but helps identify possible exposure for further evaluation.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve lived or traveled in areas with high risk for *Coccidioides* infection, have symptoms like cough, fever, or fatigue, or if you have a weakened immune system. It’s also used in monitoring for people who have already been diagnosed with the infection.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually over quickly.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are qualitative (positive, negative, or indeterminate). A positive result suggests possible exposure but does not confirm an active infection. Follow-up testing, such as a confirmatory antibody test or fungal cultures, may be needed for diagnosis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive IgG result indicates your body has mounted an immune response to *Coccidioides*, which could mean past exposure. However, not everyone exposed will develop symptoms. If symptoms like respiratory issues or systemic illness occur, further testing and medical evaluation are essential to assess for active infection or complications.
Short name
Coccidioides IgG Screening
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get this test if I’ve never lived in a high-risk area?
How long does it take to get 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