Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody (serum/plasma), qualitative
This test detects antibodies to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium that can cause respiratory infections, including psittacosis, in humans. It helps identify past or current exposure to the organism.
["This screening test checks for signs of exposure to a rare but serious bacterial infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6340-4
- Short code
- C psittaci Ag Spec Ql IA
- Synonyms
- C psittaci Ag Spec Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- 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 the presence of IgG antibodies against *Chlamydia psittaci* in your blood. If your body has encountered this bacterium, your immune system produces antibodies as part of its defense. This test is qualitative, meaning it only tells you whether antibodies are present or not, not their exact level.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or respiratory issues—especially if you’ve been exposed to birds or poultry. It’s also used in certain outbreaks or investigations of psittacosis.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (either serum or plasma) via a simple venipuncture. Results are typically available within a few days.
What the Results Mean
A positive result suggests past or current exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci*. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing. Follow-up testing or clinical correlation may be needed if symptoms persist.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Chlamydia psittaci Antibody Screen (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
Chlamydia psittaci is a zoonotic pathogen primarily transmitted through inhalation of infected bird droppings or aerosols. While rare, it can cause severe pneumonia, flu-like symptoms, or even neurological complications. Early detection helps guide treatment and prevent spread.
If your test is positive, discuss your symptoms, exposure history, and next steps with your healthcare provider. A negative result doesn’t rule out past exposure—repeat testing may be recommended if symptoms persist.
A positive result could indicate past exposure without active illness. Your doctor may recommend monitoring or further evaluation based on your clinical picture and risk factors.
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