Skip to content

Fluoroquinolone Antibody Screening in Serum (Qualitative)

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

This test checks for the presence of antibodies to fluoroquinolone antibiotics in your blood, which may indicate past exposure or immune response to these medications.

Quick summary

["Determines if your body has developed immunity to fluoroquinolone antibiotics through prior exposure or treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
38273-9
Short code
FLUAV Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Synonyms
FLUAV Ab Ser IA-aCnc
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’ve been exposed to fluoroquinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin) or if you have conditions like Lyme disease, infections requiring these antibiotics, or suspected allergic reactions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.

What the Results Mean

Positive results suggest your immune system has detected fluoroquinolone antibodies, which could mean prior exposure or an immune response. Negative results indicate no detectable antibodies at this time.

Common Uses and Clinical Context

This test helps assess immune response to fluoroquinolone antibiotics, evaluate exposure history, or guide treatment decisions in infections where these drugs are used.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fluoroquinolone Antibody Test

Frequently asked questions

What does it mean if my fluoroquinolone antibody test is positive?
A positive result suggests your body has recognized fluoroquinolone antibiotics, possibly due to prior treatment or exposure. This may help explain symptoms like allergic reactions or immune responses if you’ve taken these medications.
Can this test be used to diagnose an infection?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose an infection. It measures antibodies, which indicate past or current immune activity to fluoroquinolones, not the presence of an active infection. Other tests (e.g., cultures, clinical symptoms) are needed for diagnosis.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
  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