Serum Antibody to *Coccidioides* (Qualitative, Immunoassay)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that may indicate exposure to *Coccidioides*, a fungus found in certain desert regions. It helps assess risk for infection, especially if you’ve traveled to or live in areas where the fungus is common.
["This screening test helps identify possible exposure to a fungal infection that can affect the lungs and other body systems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49712-3
- Short code
- Coccidioides Ab Ser Ql LA
- Synonyms
- Coccidioides Ab Ser Ql LA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- la
- 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 looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to *Coccidioides* exposure. Antibodies are proteins that can signal whether your body has encountered the fungus, though they may not always mean you have an active infection.
Why Might You Need This Test?
You may be tested for *Coccidioides* antibodies if you’ve lived or traveled in areas like the southwestern U.S., parts of Mexico, or certain regions of South America, South Africa, or Australia. Doctors may also recommend it if you have symptoms like coughing, fever, or fatigue, or if you have a weakened immune system.
What Are Common Symptoms?
If you have an active infection, symptoms can range from mild (like a cold) to severe (such as chest pain, skin rashes, or joint pain). Many people don’t show symptoms at all, but the test can still help track exposure risk.
How Is the Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where antibodies to *Coccidioides* are tested using an immunoassay method. Results are qualitative (positive or negative) rather than a specific number.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive result suggests possible exposure to *Coccidioides*, but it doesn’t always mean you have an active infection. Some people may develop antibodies years after exposure. If you’re at higher risk (e.g., pregnant, immunocompromised), follow-up testing or medical evaluation may be needed to assess further.
Short name
Coccidioides antibody screen
Frequently asked questions
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
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