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Clostridium perfringens Group II Enterotoxin Antibody, Serum

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

This test checks for antibodies to the enterotoxin produced by *Clostridium perfringens*, a bacterium that can cause food poisoning. Antibodies may develop after exposure to this toxin.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify past or current exposure to a toxin linked to gastrointestinal illness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26768-2
Short code
C perfringens IgM Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
C perfringens IgM Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86430
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve experienced symptoms like severe diarrhea, abdominal cramping, or vomiting within hours of eating contaminated food. It may also be used in investigations of foodborne illness outbreaks or to assess exposure in certain clinical settings.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample from a vein, typically drawn in a clinic or lab. The sample is collected in a plain tube and sent to the lab for analysis.

What the Test Measures

The test detects the presence of antibodies specific to *Clostridium perfringens* enterotoxin in your serum. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces in response to exposure to this toxin.

How the Results Are Interpreted

Results are qualitative (positive or negative) and indicate whether your immune system has recognized the toxin. A positive result suggests prior exposure, but it does not confirm active infection or illness at the time of testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Clostridium perfringens Enterotoxin Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your immune system has detected antibodies to the toxin, suggesting past exposure. This does not indicate whether you currently have an illness or require treatment.
Can this test be used to diagnose food poisoning?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose food poisoning. It only shows if your body has produced antibodies to the toxin. Symptoms and clinical evaluation are needed for diagnosis.
Is fasting required before this test?
No fasting is required. Blood is drawn at any time of day.
  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