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Coccidioides immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody serology (qualitative)

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

This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Coccidioides* (coccidioidomycosis), a fungal infection found in certain desert regions of the southwestern U.S. and parts of Latin America.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose or monitor coccidioidomycosis, a fungal infection that may cause flu-like symptoms or more serious lung or systemic illness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53367-9
Short code
Coccidioides IgM Spec Ql
Synonyms
Coccidioides IgM Spec Ql
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 healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve lived in or traveled to areas with high risk for *Coccidioides*, have symptoms like cough, fever, or fatigue, or if you have a weakened immune system. It can also be used to track treatment progress or check for recurrence.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from your arm in a clinic or lab. The test is usually done as part of a routine visit or follow-up.

What the Test Measures

The test looks for IgG antibodies, which develop after your body has been exposed to *Coccidioides*. These antibodies indicate past infection or chronic exposure, but they don’t always correlate directly with active illness.

Possible Results and Interpretation

A positive result suggests exposure to *Coccidioides*, but it doesn’t always mean you’re currently sick. A negative result means no detectable antibodies at the time of testing. Results may vary based on your health history and timing since exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

IgG Antibody to Coccidioides (Screen/Confirm)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive IgG result indicates past exposure to *Coccidioides*, which can be common in endemic areas. It doesn’t always mean you’re actively infected, but it may prompt further evaluation if symptoms persist or worsen. Chronic infection can cause long-term lung damage, so follow-up testing or treatment may be recommended.
Can this test detect active infection?
No, this test specifically measures IgG antibodies, which reflect past or chronic exposure rather than an acute (active) infection. For active infection, additional tests (like culture or PCR) may be needed.
How long after exposure might I test positive?
IgG antibodies can take weeks to months to develop after exposure. If you suspect recent exposure, your provider may recommend retesting in a few months to monitor antibody development.
  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