Skip to content

Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody (serum/plasma) – Immunoassay

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

This test measures the level of antibodies your body produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacteria that can cause respiratory infections like pneumonia. It helps detect past exposure to this organism.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify if you’ve been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci* at some point, even if you don’t currently have symptoms."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22180-4
Short code
C psittaci IgG Titr Ser
Synonyms
C psittaci IgG Titr Ser
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
61
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82977
SNOMED
3110003
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’ve had recent exposure to birds (such as parrots, cockatiels, or other poultry) or if you’ve developed unexplained respiratory symptoms after contact with birds. It can also be used in outbreaks or investigations of psittacosis, a contagious disease spread through bird droppings or respiratory secretions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (usually drawn from your arm) in either serum or plasma. If you’re taking blood thinners, let your provider know beforehand.

What the Test Results Mean

A positive result means your body has produced antibodies against *Chlamydia psittaci*, suggesting past exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time. Results alone don’t confirm active infection—your provider will consider clinical symptoms and exposure history.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is primarily used for screening or confirming exposure history rather than diagnosing active infection. It’s not typically ordered for routine check-ups unless you have a known risk of exposure (e.g., bird owners, travelers to endemic areas).

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

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 indicates your body has mounted an immune response to *Chlamydia psittaci* at some point. This doesn’t necessarily mean you’re currently infected, but it confirms past exposure. If you develop symptoms like fever, cough, or respiratory distress after bird exposure, consult your provider to evaluate for active psittacosis.
Can this test detect active infection?
No, this test specifically measures IgG antibodies, which develop after an infection has resolved. For active infection, your provider may order additional tests like PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for *Chlamydia psittaci* DNA in respiratory samples.
How long after exposure might results change?
IgG antibodies typically appear 2–4 weeks after exposure and can remain detectable for months to years. If you suspect recent exposure, your provider may recommend retesting or other diagnostic approaches.
  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