Giardia lamblia IgM antibody, serum/plasma (Immunoassay)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to *Giardia lamblia*, a parasite commonly found in contaminated water or poor hygiene environments. It helps identify past or current infection.
["This test helps diagnose giardiasis, a gastrointestinal infection caused by the parasite Giardia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22307-3
- Short code
- G lamblia IgM Titr Ser
- Synonyms
- G lamblia IgM Titr Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test measures **IgM antibodies**—a type of immune protein your body makes when it first encounters *Giardia lamblia*. These antibodies appear shortly after infection and can indicate an active or recent infection. The presence of IgM suggests an ongoing immune response to the parasite.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like diarrhea, stomach cramps, bloating, or nausea—especially if you’ve traveled to areas with poor water quality or have had recent exposure to contaminated water. It’s also used to confirm a suspected giardiasis diagnosis in people with persistent digestive issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to other routine blood tests. If you’re pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications, let your provider know before the test.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis using an **immunoassay** method. Results are typically available within 1–3 business days. If the test is positive, further testing (like stool samples) may be needed to confirm the parasite’s presence.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
IgM Antibody to Giardia (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
This test helps distinguish between past exposure and active infection. IgM antibodies are most useful for detecting recent or current giardiasis, while IgG antibodies (if tested separately) may indicate past exposure or chronic infection. A positive result suggests the need for treatment and further diagnostic steps.
IgM antibodies typically appear within 1–4 weeks after infection. Symptoms may start earlier, but antibody detection lags slightly because your immune system takes time to produce them. If you suspect giardiasis, follow up with your provider for testing sooner if symptoms persist.
Yes, this test can still be useful even after treatment. A positive result may indicate incomplete eradication or reinfection. If you’ve recently completed treatment, your provider may recommend retesting to confirm resolution of the infection.
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