Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody, serum/plasma (qualitative immunoassay)
This test detects antibodies to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium that can cause respiratory infections like psittacosis, primarily in birds but also in humans through exposure.
["Checks for past or current exposure to a bacterium linked to severe respiratory illness."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22998-9
- Short code
- C psittaci Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
- Synonyms
- C psittaci Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
- 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-stain
- 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 symptoms like fever, cough, or pneumonia—especially after exposure to birds, bird handlers, or contaminated environments. It may also be used to investigate unexplained respiratory infections in certain high-risk groups.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (serum or plasma) via a simple venipuncture. Results are qualitative (positive/negative) and typically available within a few days.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result suggests past exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci* and may indicate past infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at the time of testing, but it doesn’t rule out recent infection entirely.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test is often used in outbreaks, among bird owners, or in patients with atypical pneumonia when other causes (like COVID-19 or influenza) are suspected but inconclusive.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
While antibodies indicate exposure, they don’t always correlate with active infection. A positive result may prompt further evaluation for symptoms, isolation precautions, or treatment recommendations. This test is supportive, not diagnostic, and should be interpreted alongside clinical findings.
Short name
Chlamydia psittaci Antibody (IgG) Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get this test at home?
How soon will I get my results?
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