Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody (serum/plasma) – Quantitative
This test measures the level of antibodies your body 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 feathers. Antibodies indicate past exposure or infection.
["This test helps assess whether you may have been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci* and could be at risk for psittacosis, a respiratory illness."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22999-7
- Short code
- C psittaci Ag Stl Ql ImStn
- Synonyms
- C psittaci Ag Stl Ql ImStn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- stool
- Container
- Clean container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- Specimen volume
- 5 g
- Stability
- Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- 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 owners, or those who handle birds. It may also be used in investigations of unexplained respiratory infections or as part of a broader diagnostic workup for suspected zoonotic diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually drawn from your arm) in a serum or plasma tube. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies, suggesting past exposure or infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing. However, false negatives can occur, especially if testing is done too early after exposure. Consult your provider for interpretation.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used in occupational health settings for bird handlers, veterinarians, or individuals in environments where bird exposure is common. It may also be part of outbreak investigations or for monitoring in high-risk populations.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While antibodies alone don’t confirm an active infection, they can guide further evaluation. If symptoms persist or exposure history is significant, your provider may recommend additional testing (e.g., PCR or culture) to diagnose active psittacosis. Early treatment with antibiotics can prevent complications.
Short name
Chlamydia psittaci Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I get this test if I’ve never had contact with birds?
What if my results are positive?
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