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Conjunctival Conjunctivitis Antigen (IgA) - Quantitative

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

This test measures the amount of Immunoglobulin A (IgA), a type of antibody, in fluid from your conjunctiva—the clear tissue covering the white part of your eye and the inner eyelid.

Quick summary

["IgA in eye fluid may help detect infections or inflammation in the eye."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
6350-3
Short code
C trach Ag Conjunct Ql IA
Synonyms
C trach Ag Conjunct Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 like redness, swelling, or discharge in your eyes that suggest an infection or allergic reaction. It can also help diagnose conditions like conjunctivitis (pink eye) or other eye-related immune responses.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to gently clean your eyes with a sterile solution before collecting a small sample of fluid from your conjunctiva using a sterile swab or similar device.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will collect fluid from your conjunctiva, often by gently pressing a sterile swab against the inner corner of your eye. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Elevated levels of IgA in your eye fluid may indicate an active infection, inflammation, or immune response. Lower than expected levels might suggest a weakened immune response in that area. Your results will be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgA in Conjunctival Fluid

Frequently asked questions

How often will I need this test?
This test is typically ordered as needed for diagnosis or monitoring of eye conditions. Results may guide decisions about treatment, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications.
What are the normal results?
There are no standard reference ranges for this specific test because it is not widely used in routine clinical practice. Your healthcare provider will compare your results to your own baseline or clinical context to determine significance.
Can I take anything before this test?
No specific preparations are required, but avoid applying eye drops or creams before the test unless instructed by your provider.
  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