Chlamydia psittaci IgG antibody (Serum)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Chlamydia psittaci*, a bacterium linked to psittacosis—a respiratory illness often spread by birds.
["This test helps identify past or current exposure to the bacteria causing psittacosis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22992-2
- Short code
- C psittaci Spec Ql Gie Stn
- Synonyms
- C psittaci Spec Ql Gie Stn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- giemsa-stain
- 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 part of your immune system’s long-term defense and can indicate exposure to the bacteria, even if you no longer have active symptoms.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of psittacosis (e.g., fever, cough, or respiratory distress) after contact with birds, or if you’ve been exposed to birds in a setting where psittacosis is known to occur (e.g., bird handling, pet ownership). It may also be used in outbreaks or for diagnostic confirmation.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is sent to a lab for analysis, where antibodies are detected using an immunoassay method. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may not be required.
What to Expect Before or After
Before the test: No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider if you’re on blood-thinning medications or have a history of blood clots. After the test: Mild bruising or soreness at the injection site may occur; apply ice if needed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgG Antibody to Chlamydia psittaci
Frequently asked questions
A positive result suggests past or recent exposure to *Chlamydia psittaci*, which can lead to psittacosis—a respiratory illness that may require treatment with antibiotics. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time, but exposure could still have occurred without symptoms.
A positive result indicates your immune system has likely encountered *Chlamydia psittaci* at some point. This could mean you had mild or asymptomatic infection, or you were exposed to birds carrying the bacteria. Your provider may recommend further testing or monitoring if symptoms persist.
If you have symptoms of psittacosis (e.g., fever, cough, or difficulty breathing) and this test is positive, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Isolation may not be necessary unless you’re caring for someone at high risk (e.g., immunocompromised individuals), but follow their guidance.
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