Chlamydia psittaci Antibody, Serum (Qualitative Immunoassay)
This test checks for antibodies in your blood that may indicate past exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium linked to psittacosis—a respiratory illness primarily spread by birds. Antibodies suggest your immune system has encountered this organism, though active infection may require additional testing.
["This screening helps assess potential exposure risk or past infection from birds."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22994-8
- Short code
- C psittaci Ab Ser Ql Aggl
- Synonyms
- C psittaci Ab Ser Ql Aggl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- aggl
- 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 had close contact with birds (e.g., pets, farm animals, or wild birds), recent respiratory symptoms, or if you live in an area with known psittacosis outbreaks. It’s also used in occupational health settings (e.g., poultry workers) to monitor exposure risk.
What to Expect During the Test
A small blood sample is drawn from your arm. The test is qualitative, meaning it only provides a positive/negative result—not exact antibody levels. Results are typically available within 24–48 hours.
What the Results Mean
A **negative** result means no detectable antibodies were found, suggesting no past exposure or infection. A **positive** result indicates possible past exposure but does not confirm active infection. Follow-up testing (e.g., PCR or culture) may be needed if symptoms persist.
Common Reasons for False Results
False negatives are rare but possible if testing occurs too early after exposure. False positives can occur due to cross-reactivity with other bacteria or prior vaccination. Discuss results with your provider to interpret them accurately.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While this test helps identify exposure history, it does not diagnose active psittacosis. Symptoms like fever, cough, or pneumonia should prompt immediate medical evaluation. If you suspect exposure, seek care promptly, as early treatment can improve outcomes.
Short name
Chlamydia psittaci Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
What does a positive result mean for my health?
Can I get this test at home?
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