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Chlamydia psittaci IgM Antibody (Serum or Plasma)

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

This test measures the presence of IgM antibodies in your blood, which may indicate a recent infection with *Chlamydia psittaci*—a bacterium linked to psittacosis, a respiratory illness often spread by birds.

Quick summary

["Detects recent bird-borne bacterial infection with potential respiratory symptoms."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16588-6
Short code
C psittaci IgM CSF-aCnc
Synonyms
C psittaci IgM CSF-aCnc
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

What This Test Measures

IgM antibodies are a type of immune protein your body produces shortly after infection. This test helps identify if you’ve recently been exposed to *Chlamydia psittaci*, which can cause illness in people who come into contact with infected birds (e.g., pet birds, farm animals, or wild birds).

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms like fever, cough, or flu-like illness after exposure to birds, especially if you live in or travel to areas with known bird populations. It’s also used in cases of suspected psittacosis in occupational settings (e.g., bird handlers).

Sample Collection and Preparation

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s tested for IgM antibodies using an immunoassay method. Results are typically available within 2–5 business days.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally, but inform your provider if you’re on blood-thinning medications or have a history of bleeding disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgM Antibody to Chlamydia psittaci

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually ready within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your provider will discuss the meaning of your results with you during follow-up.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive IgM result indicates you likely had *Chlamydia psittaci* exposure recently. This doesn’t confirm illness without symptoms, but it may trigger further testing or monitoring. Always discuss findings with your healthcare provider.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional. Some labs offer at-home blood draws, but confirm with your provider or lab for availability.
  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