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Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody (serum/plasma)

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

This test measures the level of IgG antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium that can cause infections in birds and occasionally in humans.

Quick summary

["This test helps detect past exposure to the bacterium that may cause respiratory infections or other illnesses."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5080-7
Short code
C psittaci IgG Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
C psittaci IgG Ser-aCnc
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 bird droppings. It can also be used to investigate unexplained respiratory infections or to monitor certain conditions linked to prior exposure.

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. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.

What the Results Mean

Positive results indicate the presence of IgG antibodies, suggesting you’ve likely been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci* at some point. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, which may mean you’ve never been exposed or the exposure was very recent.

Possible Causes of Positive Results

A positive test result could be due to past infection from *Chlamydia psittaci*, which can spread through inhaling contaminated dust from dried bird droppings. It’s not the same as active infection, which would require 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 past exposure to the bacterium. It does not indicate whether you currently have an active infection or symptoms. If you’re concerned about recent exposure, discuss symptoms with your provider.
What if my test is positive?
A positive result means you’ve been exposed to the bacterium at some point. Your provider may recommend further testing if you have symptoms of illness, such as respiratory issues, to rule out active infection. They may also advise monitoring for future exposure risks.
How long do IgG antibodies last?
IgG antibodies can remain in your system for months or even years after exposure. They don’t always indicate a current infection, so they’re not a direct measure of active illness.
  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