Giardia lamblia antibody, serum/plasma (qualitative or semi-quantitative immunoassay)
This test checks for antibodies to the parasite *Giardia lamblia*, which can cause intestinal infections like giardiasis. Antibodies indicate past or current infection.
["This test helps diagnose giardiasis, a common intestinal parasite infection."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 5169-8
- Short code
- G lamblia Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- G lamblia Ab Ser-aCnc
- 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
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, or unexplained weight loss. It may also be used if you’ve traveled to areas with higher parasite risk or if you’ve been exposed to contaminated water. This test helps confirm whether you’ve been infected by *Giardia lamblia*, a microscopic parasite that can cause digestive issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample from a vein, usually in a doctor’s office or lab. The test is quick and typically painless. If you’re using blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of antibodies to *Giardia lamblia*, suggesting past or current infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, which may mean you’re not infected or the infection has cleared. Antibody tests alone cannot confirm active infection—your doctor may also order stool tests for direct parasite detection.
Common Symptoms of Giardiasis
Symptoms may include watery or greasy diarrhea, stomach pain, bloating, gas, nausea, and sometimes a foul-smelling stool. Some people may have no symptoms at all. If you experience these symptoms, especially after traveling to areas with poor water sanitation, discuss testing with your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Giardia Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used to diagnose giardiasis, a parasitic infection that can cause chronic diarrhea, malnutrition, and dehydration in severe cases. It’s especially important for travelers, immunocompromised individuals, or those in settings with poor hygiene. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and allows for prompt treatment with antiparasitic medications.
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your doctor will contact you with the results once they’re ready.
Yes, this test is generally safe during pregnancy. Antibody testing for parasites like *Giardia* is considered low-risk and does not pose known harm to the fetus. Always confirm with your healthcare provider before any testing.
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