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Coccidioides antibody serologic test (qualitative, serum/plasma)

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

This test checks for antibodies in your blood that may indicate exposure to *Coccidioides*, a fungus found in certain desert regions. Antibodies can appear after infection or exposure.

Quick summary

["Helps detect potential fungal exposure that may require further evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
62457-7
Short code
Coccidioides TP Ab Ser Ql ID
Synonyms
Coccidioides TP Ab Ser Ql ID
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-diffusion
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 This Test Measures

The test detects the presence of antibodies (immune proteins) produced by your body in response to *Coccidioides* infection. These antibodies can develop after exposure to fungal spores, which may cause illness in some people.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you live in or have traveled to areas with high risk for *Coccidioides* infection (e.g., parts of the southwestern U.S., Central/South America). It may also be used to monitor symptoms or guide treatment in suspected cases.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for antibody detection.

What the Results Mean

A positive result suggests your body has mounted an immune response to *Coccidioides*, which could indicate past or current exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Coccidioides Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

When might I get false-positive or false-negative results?
False positives can occur if you have other infections, autoimmune conditions, or recent vaccinations. False negatives may happen if the test was taken too early after exposure or if antibodies have cleared from your system. Discuss results with your provider for interpretation.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will discuss findings with you during follow-up.
Can I take anything to lower my risk of false-positive results?
No specific actions can reduce false positives, but avoiding recent infections or medications that may interfere with antibody detection is advised. Your provider will guide you on next steps based on your results.
  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