Legionella serology – Antibody Detection (Serum)
This test checks for antibodies to *Legionella*, a type of bacteria that can cause a serious lung infection called Legionnaires’ disease. Antibodies appear in your blood after exposure, helping the body fight the infection.
["Detects past or possible exposure to *Legionella* bacteria through antibody presence in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 590-0
- Short code
- Legionella Spt Cult
- Synonyms
- Legionella Spt Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- sputum
- Container
- Sterile sputum container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve had symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, especially after traveling to areas with poor ventilation or exposure to contaminated water. It’s also used in outbreaks or if you’ve been in close contact with someone who has Legionnaires’ disease.
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 done on serum (liquid part of blood after clotting). Results may take several days to weeks, depending on lab processing.
What the Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of antibodies, suggesting past exposure to *Legionella*. However, this does not always mean you have an active infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, which could mean you’ve never been exposed or the infection was cleared quickly.
Possible Side Effects or Risks
Minor side effects from blood drawing may include bruising, slight pain, or swelling at the injection site. Rarely, more serious reactions like allergic responses can occur, but these are uncommon.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is primarily used for diagnostic screening or outbreak investigation rather than confirming an active infection. While antibodies indicate exposure, other tests (like culture or antigen detection) may be needed to diagnose current Legionnaires’ disease. Early treatment with antibiotics is crucial for severe cases.
Short name
Legionella Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I get this test at home?
Does this test show if I currently have Legionnaires’ disease?
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