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Chlamydia psittaci IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium linked to psittacosis—a rare but serious respiratory illness often spread by contact with infected birds.

Quick summary

["It helps identify past or recent exposure to the bacteria causing psittacosis."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
44978-5
Short code
C psittaci IgA Ser Ql
Synonyms
C psittaci IgA Ser Ql
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or fatigue—especially if you’ve had contact with birds, poultry, or exotic pets. It’s also used in outbreaks or when investigating unexplained respiratory infections in people with a history of bird exposure.

What to Expect During the Test

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to measure IgG antibodies against *Chlamydia psittaci*. Results are typically available within 3–5 business days.

What the Results Mean

Positive results suggest your body has recognized and fought off the bacteria, but they don’t confirm active infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found, which may indicate no prior exposure or recent infection.

Possible Causes of Positive Results

A positive IgG test alone doesn’t diagnose psittacosis. Other conditions (like other infections or autoimmune diseases) could also produce similar antibody responses. Confirmation often requires clinical correlation and possibly additional testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

IgG Antibody to Chlamydia psittaci

Frequently asked questions

Could I get sick from this test result?
No, this test only shows whether your body has produced antibodies to *Chlamydia psittaci*. It does not indicate current infection or illness. If symptoms persist, consult your provider for further evaluation.
What if I’ve had contact with birds?
If you’ve had close contact with birds (e.g., handling, cleaning cages) and develop symptoms like fever or respiratory issues, inform your provider. This test helps assess exposure risk, but symptoms alone aren’t enough to diagnose psittacosis without additional testing.
How often should I get this test?
This test is typically done once if symptoms or exposure history suggest it. Repeat testing isn’t standard unless you have ongoing symptoms or new exposure. Always follow your provider’s guidance.
  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