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Schistosoma IgE Antibody, Serum — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A qualitative blood test that detects IgE antibodies associated with exposure to Schistosoma parasites.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests prior or current exposure to Schistosoma but does not by itself confirm active infection."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
21517-8
Short code
Deprecated Schistosoma IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Schistosoma IgE RAST Ql
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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 is this test?

This blood test looks for IgE antibodies directed against Schistosoma, a group of parasitic worms that can infect people through contaminated freshwater. A qualitative result is reported as positive or negative.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to help evaluate suspected schistosomiasis, especially after contact with freshwater in an area where the parasite occurs. It may also be used when a person has symptoms such as fever, rash, abdominal discomfort, or blood in the stool or urine.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and tested for Schistosoma-specific IgE antibodies. This is an antibody detection test, so it does not directly examine the parasite or determine the intensity of infection.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Tell your healthcare professional if you have recently traveled or had contact with freshwater where Schistosoma is present and if you have previously been treated for the infection.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Short name

Schistosoma IgE Antibody

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I currently have schistosomiasis?
Not necessarily. IgE antibodies can be present during active infection or remain for years after exposure and treatment, so other clinical findings may be needed to determine whether infection is active.
Can this test be negative even if I have been exposed?
Yes. Antibodies may not be detectable soon after exposure, and some infected people may not produce a detectable response. A negative result is therefore interpreted together with your exposure history and symptoms.
What should I do if the result is positive?
Discuss the result with your healthcare professional, who can consider your travel and freshwater exposure history, symptoms, and additional tests for active infection. If infection is confirmed, appropriate treatment may be recommended.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy