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Chlamydia psittaci antibody, serum/plasma (immunoassay)

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

This test detects antibodies to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium linked to psittacosis—a respiratory illness primarily affecting birds but potentially spreading to humans through contaminated dust or feathers.

Quick summary

["It helps identify past or current exposure to the bacteria that causes psittacosis."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22995-5
Short code
C psittaci Ab Ser Ql ID
Synonyms
C psittaci 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

Why This Test Matters

While you may not have symptoms, this test can confirm if your immune system has encountered *Chlamydia psittaci*. It’s often used in cases of unexplained respiratory infections, especially after exposure to birds or contaminated environments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually over quickly. If you’re pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications, let your provider know.

What the Results Mean

Positive results indicate your body has produced antibodies against *Chlamydia psittaci*, suggesting past exposure. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found at this time. Results don’t confirm active infection without additional testing.

Common Causes of Positive Results

A positive result could stem from direct exposure to infected birds (e.g., parrots, pigeons) or contaminated environments (e.g., bird cages, feather products). It may also appear after recovering from psittacosis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Chlamydia psittaci Antibody

Frequently asked questions

How is this test used in healthcare?
This test is primarily diagnostic for psittacosis, a rare but serious illness. It’s often ordered for people with respiratory symptoms after bird exposure, occupational risks (e.g., veterinarians, pet owners), or unexplained fevers. It helps guide treatment decisions and monitoring.
What if I have symptoms of psittacosis?
If you develop symptoms like fever, cough, or difficulty breathing after bird exposure, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms may appear 1–3 weeks after exposure. Antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline) are typically prescribed if infection is confirmed.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Home diagnostic tests for specific pathogens are not standard for this purpose.
  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