Skip to content

: Chlamydia psittaci Antibodies, Serum

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

: This test detects antibodies against Chlamydia psittaci, a bacterium that can cause a flu-like illness called psittacosis, usually acquired from infected birds. It is mainly used to support diagnosis when exposure or characteristic symptoms are suspected.

Quick summary

[": A positive result suggests past or recent exposure to C. psittaci, but results must be interpreted alongside symptoms and exposure history."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5079-9
Short code
C psittaci Ab Titr Ser CF
Synonyms
C psittaci Ab Titr Ser CF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
comp-fix
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 looks for antibodies (immune proteins) your body makes in response to Chlamydia psittaci. It is typically run on a blood serum sample and may involve comparing antibody levels across paired samples taken at different times.

: Why Your Doctor May Order It

: Your doctor may order this test if you have fever, cough, headache, or other respiratory symptoms and may have been exposed to birds, poultry, or other animals known to carry the bacterium. It may also be used when other causes of pneumonia are being ruled out.

: How to Prepare and What to Expect

: No special preparation is usually required. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, often from your arm. Your care team will tell you if repeat or follow-up samples are needed.

: How Results Are Interpreted

: Antibody testing can suggest exposure or recent infection, but results alone do not confirm disease. Your doctor interprets results together with symptoms, bird or animal exposure, and other tests. Some antibody tests can cross-react with other Chlamydia species, so confirmatory testing may be needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

: Psittacosis is uncommon but can be serious, especially without treatment. Antibody testing helps support diagnosis when exposure and symptoms fit, but it should not be used alone to make or exclude a diagnosis.

Short name

: C. psittaci Antibody

Frequently asked questions

: Can I get psittacosis from my pet bird?
: Yes, infected birds can shed the bacterium, and people usually become infected by inhaling dust or droplets from bird droppings, feathers, or respiratory secretions. Not every bird carries it, and bird owners are not automatically infected.
: Does a positive antibody result mean I currently have an infection?
: Not necessarily. Antibodies can persist after past exposure or infection, so a positive result may reflect a previous exposure. Your doctor will interpret the result with your symptoms, timing, and any follow-up samples.
: Can this test rule out psittacosis?
: No. A negative result does not always exclude infection, especially early in the illness when antibodies may not yet be detectable. Your doctor may recommend repeat testing or other diagnostic methods.
  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