Chlamydia psittaci antibody, serum/plasma (qualitative or semiquantitative immunoassay)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a type of bacteria that can cause infections in birds and sometimes spread to humans through contact with contaminated bird droppings or dust.
["It helps identify past or potential exposure to the bacteria linked to psittacosis, a respiratory illness."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 7822-0
- Short code
- C psittaci Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- C psittaci Ab 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
- 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 have symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing—especially if you’ve had recent contact with birds, bird droppings, or bird habitats. It’s also used in cases of suspected psittacosis, a rare but serious illness that can affect the lungs and other organs.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test checks for antibodies in your serum or plasma, which your body makes after exposure to the bacteria. Results are qualitative (positive/negative) or semiquantitative (approximate levels).
What the Results Mean
A positive result suggests your immune system has detected *Chlamydia psittaci* antibodies, indicating past exposure or infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time. Results don’t confirm active infection but may guide further testing or treatment planning.
When You Might Need Follow-Up
If your results are positive, your provider may recommend additional tests (like PCR or culture) to confirm active infection or monitor symptoms. If symptoms persist, they may also check for other causes of respiratory illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Chlamydia psittaci Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used to support a diagnosis of psittacosis, especially in patients with respiratory symptoms and a history of bird exposure. While not a direct measure of active infection, it helps rule out or confirm exposure-related illness, guiding treatment decisions (e.g., antibiotics for active infection).
Yes, the test can be ordered for anyone with respiratory symptoms, regardless of bird exposure. It’s important for diagnosing psittacosis in cases where other causes are unclear.
A positive result could mean you had past exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci* without developing symptoms. Your provider may still monitor you for future symptoms or recommend further testing if needed.
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