Chlamydia psittaci IgG Antibody, Serum (Quantitative Immunoassay)
This test measures the level of antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a type of bacteria that can cause infections like psittacosis (a respiratory illness). Antibodies help your body fight off infections, and this test helps doctors assess past exposure or immune response.
["This test helps evaluate exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci* and supports diagnosis or monitoring of related infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44977-7
- Short code
- C psittaci IgM Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- C psittaci IgM Ser Ql
- 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 of psittacosis (such as fever, cough, or flu-like illness) after exposure to birds, particularly those kept as pets or in flocks. It may also be used in cases of suspected occupational exposure (e.g., in poultry farming, veterinary care, or bird handling).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, and you’ll rest for a few minutes afterward. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result indicates the presence of antibodies, suggesting past exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci*. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, but this doesn’t rule out exposure—results can vary based on when after exposure testing occurs. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Causes of Positive Results
Positive results are most likely after exposure to infected birds or contaminated environments. They may also appear in people with active psittacosis if the infection is still in your system.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used to confirm past exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci* rather than diagnose an active infection. If you’re experiencing symptoms like fever, respiratory issues, or fatigue, your provider may order additional tests (such as chest X-rays or cultures) to diagnose psittacosis. Antibody levels can sometimes help track immune response over time, especially in research or occupational health settings.
Short name
IgG Antibody to Chlamydia psittaci
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
What if my results are positive but I don’t have symptoms?
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