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Antibody to *Giardia lamblia* (IgG) – Serum

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

This test checks for antibodies in your blood that your immune system makes in response to *Giardia lamblia*, a microscopic parasite that can cause intestinal infections.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose past or ongoing infection by *Giardia*, a common cause of stomach and intestinal issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
23744-6
Short code
G lamblia Ag Spec Ql IF
Synonyms
G lamblia Ag Spec Ql IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
if
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

The test detects IgG antibodies, a type of immune protein your body produces after being exposed to *Giardia lamblia*. These antibodies suggest you’ve had an infection at some point, even if symptoms have cleared.

Why It’s Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, or stomach pain—especially if you’ve traveled to areas with high parasite risk or lived in a setting where contamination is common (e.g., daycare, shared housing).

What to Expect

No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. Results are typically ready within a few days.

Possible Results and Next Steps

A positive result means you likely had *Giardia* at some point, but it doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected. If symptoms persist, your doctor may order additional tests (like a stool sample) to check for active infection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Giardia IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What symptoms might this test be used for?
Symptoms like chronic diarrhea, bloating, or stomach cramps—especially if they’ve lasted weeks or months—may prompt this test, particularly if you’ve had recent travel or exposure to contaminated water.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates your immune system has encountered *Giardia lamblia* before, but it doesn’t confirm an active infection. If you’re still experiencing symptoms, further testing (like a stool parasite exam) may be needed to rule out ongoing infection.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 2–5 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
  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