Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody (serum/plasma) by immunoassay
This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium that can cause respiratory infections like psittacosis in birds and occasionally in humans.
["This test helps identify past or current exposure to the bacterium that may require medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6915-3
- Short code
- C psittaci IgA Titr Ser IF
- Synonyms
- C psittaci IgA Titr Ser IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test measures the presence of IgG antibodies specific to *Chlamydia psittaci*. IgG antibodies are typically produced after an infection has resolved or is chronic. They indicate your immune system has encountered the bacterium at some point, though active infection may not always be present.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of a respiratory illness (e.g., fever, cough, shortness of breath) after exposure to birds, or if you live in an area with known psittacosis outbreaks. It may also be used for screening or monitoring in certain high-risk groups.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum or plasma, which is then tested for antibodies using an immunoassay method. This process is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re taking blood-thinning medications or have a history of bleeding disorders. Avoid alcohol before testing if advised by your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results suggest past exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci*, which may indicate a history of psittacosis or other related infections. However, a positive test alone does not confirm active infection. Symptoms like respiratory illness should be evaluated by a healthcare provider for further diagnosis. High antibody levels may also be seen in chronic infections or immune conditions.
Short name
IgG Antibody to Chlamydia psittaci
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I have a false-positive result?
Does this test diagnose psittacosis?
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