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Leishmania IgM Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test detects antibodies in your blood that may indicate exposure to the Leishmania parasite, which causes leishmaniasis—a disease spread by infected sandflies.

Quick summary

["Helps identify past or potential infection by the Leishmania parasite."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
88682-0
Short code
Leishmania IgM Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
Leishmania IgM Titr Ser 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
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 This Test Measures

The test looks for IgM antibodies, a type of immune protein your body produces in response to infection. IgM is typically present shortly after exposure but may decline over time. This test is used to screen for or confirm past infection rather than active disease.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve traveled to or live in areas where leishmaniasis is common, or if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or skin sores that could suggest infection.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample (serum or plasma) via a simple venipuncture. Results may take several days to weeks, depending on lab processing.

What the Results Mean

A positive result suggests past exposure to the Leishmania parasite, but it doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected. False positives can occur, so results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider alongside clinical findings.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IgM Antibody to Leishmania (Serum/Plasma)

Frequently asked questions

Why might my test results be positive but I don’t have symptoms?
A positive IgM test indicates past exposure, not necessarily active disease. Symptoms of leishmaniasis can vary widely—from skin lesions to systemic illness—and may not appear immediately after exposure. Consult your doctor to assess symptoms and overall health.
Could this test be wrong? How is it interpreted?
Yes, false positives can happen due to cross-reactivity with other infections or autoimmune conditions. False negatives are less common but possible if testing is done too early (before antibody production begins). Your provider will consider the timing of testing, travel history, and symptoms when evaluating results.
What if my test is positive but I’ve never traveled to a high-risk area?
Even without travel history, exposure is possible through bites from infected sandflies or contact with contaminated materials. If you’re concerned, discuss your symptoms and medical history with your doctor to explore further testing or treatment options.
  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