Escherichia coli IgG Antibody (Serum) - Quantitative
This test measures the level of antibodies against *Escherichia coli* bacteria in your blood serum. Antibodies are proteins your immune system produces to help fight infections.
["Your body’s immune response to E. coli bacteria can be assessed with this simple blood test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50028-0
- Short code
- E coli IgE Qn
- Synonyms
- E coli IgE Qn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of a urinary tract infection (UTI), recurrent infections, or if you’ve been exposed to E. coli. It can also help diagnose conditions like hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) or guide treatment decisions for certain infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process takes about 5 minutes. If you’re pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or are on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
High levels of E. coli antibodies may indicate past or current infection. Low or absent levels could suggest immune system issues or lack of exposure. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Possible Side Effects
Most people experience only mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site. Rarely, you might feel lightheaded or have a slight fever. If you develop severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection (like redness or pus) around the needle site, contact your doctor.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
E. coli Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
This test helps identify immune responses to E. coli, which can inform diagnosis of infections, guide treatment for UTIs, or evaluate immune function in certain conditions. It’s particularly useful in patients with recurrent infections or autoimmune disorders.
Yes, this test is typically done on serum (the liquid part of blood after clotting). If you’re concerned about blood collection, ask your doctor if alternatives like urine tests (for UTI-related E. coli) might be considered.
The results may take 1–3 business days to be processed and reviewed by your doctor. Follow-up testing or treatment plans will depend on your symptoms and test findings.
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