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Chlamydia psittaci IgG Antibody, Serum

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

This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium linked to certain respiratory infections, including psittacosis (a disease spread by birds). Antibodies indicate past or current exposure but do not confirm active infection.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess potential exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci* and may support diagnosis or monitoring in certain clinical situations."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44081-8
Short code
C psittaci IgA+IgG+IgM Ser-Imp
Synonyms
C psittaci IgA+IgG+IgM Ser-Imp
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 have symptoms like fever, cough, or breathing difficulties—especially if you’ve been exposed to birds or have traveled to regions where psittacosis is more common. It may also be used in research or occupational health settings to screen for exposure in high-risk individuals.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually drawn from a vein in your arm). If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a bleeding disorder, let your provider know before testing.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means your body has detected antibodies to *Chlamydia psittaci*, suggesting past exposure. However, this does not always mean you were sick. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found in this sample.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is less commonly used for routine diagnosis of psittacosis compared to culture or PCR testing, which identify live bacteria. Instead, it’s often used in research, occupational health, or when other tests are unavailable or inconclusive.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgG Antibody to Chlamydia psittaci

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive IgG result means your immune system has recognized *Chlamydia psittaci* antibodies, which could indicate past exposure. This does not necessarily mean you had symptoms or an illness. It’s important to discuss your symptoms and medical history with your provider to understand the clinical relevance.
Can I get this test if I’ve never been exposed to birds?
Yes, you can still have detectable IgG antibodies if you’ve been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci* at any time, even if you didn’t develop symptoms. Some people may have antibodies without knowing they were exposed.
How long do IgG antibodies last after exposure?
IgG antibodies can persist for months or years after exposure, depending on the individual. They do not always decrease over time, so a single positive test does not necessarily mean the exposure is recent.
  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