Leishmania antibody, serum/plasma (qualitative immunoassay)
This test checks for antibodies to the Leishmania parasite, which can cause infections like visceral leishmaniasis or cutaneous leishmaniasis. Antibodies may appear after exposure but don’t always indicate an active infection.
["This test helps identify possible past or recent exposure to Leishmania parasites."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 6621-7
- Short code
- Leishmania Ab Ser Ql IF
- Synonyms
- Leishmania Ab Ser 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
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, skin sores, or organ issues (e.g., liver, spleen) that could suggest a Leishmania infection. It’s also used in travelers or individuals with risk factors (e.g., living in endemic regions).
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies against Leishmania, which may indicate past exposure. However, antibodies don’t always mean you’re currently sick. Confirmation with additional tests may be needed for diagnosis.
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative result means your blood did not detect antibodies to Leishmania at this time. It doesn’t guarantee you’re free of infection—your provider may recommend retesting or other tests if symptoms persist.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is tested using an immunoassay method to detect antibodies against Leishmania parasites. Results are qualitative (positive or negative).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Leishmania Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used as a screening tool to assess exposure risk or monitor for past infection. It’s not a definitive diagnostic test for active disease and should be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other tests if needed.
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Follow-up instructions will be provided by your healthcare provider.
A positive result may require further testing (e.g., confirmatory assays) or evaluation by a specialist. Your provider will guide next steps based on your symptoms and medical history.
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