Escherichia coli Waterborne Antibody (IgG) – Quantitative
This test measures the level of IgG antibodies your body produces in response to exposure to *Escherichia coli* bacteria, often found in contaminated water sources.
["Helps assess past exposure to waterborne E. coli and potential infection risk."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87317-4
- Short code
- E coli # Wat Viab Cnt
- Synonyms
- E coli # Wat Viab Cnt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- viability-count
- 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
IgG antibodies are a type of immune protein your body makes after encountering *E. coli*. This test detects their presence in your serum or plasma to determine if you’ve been exposed to the bacteria, though it doesn’t confirm active infection. Levels can vary depending on previous exposures, immune response, or timing since exposure.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms of waterborne illness (e.g., diarrhea, nausea) after consuming contaminated water, or if you’re investigating outbreaks in your community. It’s also used in research or surveillance settings to track waterborne pathogen exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (serum or plasma) via venipuncture. If you’re taking medications that affect immune function, let your lab know, as this may influence results.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves drawing blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The sample is then processed to measure antibody levels using immunoassay techniques.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgG Antibody to E. coli (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
This test provides indirect evidence of past exposure to *E. coli* but does not diagnose active infection. High antibody levels suggest prior exposure, while low levels may indicate recent or no exposure. It’s particularly useful in epidemiological studies or for monitoring water safety in high-risk populations.
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about symptoms or test results.
Alcohol use before the test may not directly affect antibody measurements, but it could impact your overall health or immune response. Avoid heavy alcohol consumption for 24 hours before blood draw if possible.
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