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Ctfvigaspecqlia

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A blood test that detects IgA antibodies against Colorado tick fever virus to help diagnose current or recent infection.

Quick summary

{"Colorado tick fever is a viral infection spread by tick bites","This test checks for IgA antibodies in your blood","Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and sometimes rash","The test uses a blood sample collected from a vein","Results help doctors confirm if you have a current or recent infection"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95695-3
Short code
CTFV-IgA
Synonyms
CTFV IgA Spec Ql IA
Category
cardiac
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or red top tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Immunoassay
CPT
86635
SNOMED
278860009
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL serum minimum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 5-7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Colorado Tick Fever Virus IgA Antibody test is a blood test that looks for IgA antibodies in your serum. IgA antibodies are proteins your immune system produces to fight the Colorado tick fever virus. This test uses a method called immunoassay to detect whether these antibodies are present in your blood sample.

What is Colorado Tick Fever?

Colorado tick fever is a viral disease caused by the Colorado tick fever virus. It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Rocky Mountain wood tick. The disease is most common in the western United States, particularly in mountainous areas. Symptoms typically appear 3-6 days after a tick bite and may include high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, chills, fatigue, and sometimes a rash.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using immunoassay techniques to detect the presence of IgA antibodies against the Colorado tick fever virus. The result is reported as either 'positive' (antibodies detected) or 'negative' (no antibodies detected).

What do the results mean?

A positive result means that IgA antibodies to Colorado tick fever virus were detected in your blood, suggesting you have a current or recent infection. A negative result means no antibodies were detected, which could indicate you do not have the infection, or it may be too early in the infection for antibodies to be detectable. Your doctor will interpret these results together with your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Negative: No detectable Colorado tick fever virus IgA antibodies. Positive: Presence of Colorado tick fever virus IgA antibodies indicating current or recent infection. Equivocal: Borderline result, repeat testing recommended.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Routine venipuncture protocol. Inform laboratory of recent tick exposure or travel to endemic areas.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink normally before the test. Simply inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking.
Is the test painful?
You may feel a brief pinch or sting when the needle is inserted to draw blood. This is generally well-tolerated and the procedure only takes a few minutes.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results.
What should I do if my test is positive?
If your test is positive, follow your healthcare provider's recommendations. Treatment is usually supportive and includes rest, fluids, and pain relievers. Contact your doctor if your symptoms worsen or if you develop severe headache, neck stiffness, or confusion.
How can I prevent Colorado tick fever?
Prevention includes avoiding tick-infested areas when possible, using insect repellent containing DEET, performing tick checks after outdoor activities, and promptly removing any attached ticks using tweezers.
  1. 1
    CDC - Colorado Tick FeverSource
  2. 2
    MedlinePlus - Colorado Tick FeverSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic - Tick BitesSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy