Chlamydia psittaci IgG Antibody (Serum) – Immunoassay
This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a type of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections, including psittacosis (a disease primarily affecting birds but sometimes spreading to humans).
["This test helps detect past exposure to the bacteria that may have caused an infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22177-0
- Short code
- C psittaci IgA Titr CSF
- Synonyms
- C psittaci IgA Titr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, cough, or fatigue that could suggest an infection linked to exposure to birds or contaminated environments. It may also be used in investigations of unexplained respiratory illnesses or after potential exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci* (e.g., handling infected birds).
What Does the Test Measure?
The test detects IgG antibodies, which develop after your body has been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci*. These antibodies indicate a past infection rather than an active one. IgG levels rise gradually over weeks to months after exposure and can remain detectable for years.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part without clots) for testing. This test uses an immunoassay method to identify specific antibodies in your serum.
What Are Common Results and Interpretation?
Results are qualitative (positive/negative) and do not provide a numeric value. A positive result suggests past exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci*, but it does not confirm an active infection. Additional testing or clinical evaluation may be needed to diagnose current illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Chlamydia psittaci IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
A positive IgG result indicates your body has mounted an immune response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, which could mean you were exposed to the bacteria at some point. This may be relevant for occupational safety (e.g., bird handlers), travel history, or environmental risk assessment. However, it does not rule out other possible causes of symptoms or current infections. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow. Your provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
This test measures antibodies from past exposure, so it is not used to diagnose an active infection. If you suspect you have an ongoing illness, your provider may recommend additional tests (e.g., for other pathogens) or confirmatory testing for *Chlamydia psittaci* if clinically indicated.
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