Leishmania antibody, serologic test (qualitative or semiquantitative)
This test detects antibodies in your blood that may indicate exposure to the *Leishmania* parasite, which causes leishmaniasis—a disease spread by infected sandflies. It helps diagnose infections that can affect the skin, internal organs, or both.
["This test may be used if you have symptoms of leishmaniasis or live in an area where the disease is common."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10687-2
- Short code
- Leishmania Tiss Cult
- Synonyms
- Leishmania Tiss Cult
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- organism-specific-culture
- 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 This Test Is Done
Healthcare providers may order this test if you have symptoms like fever, skin sores, fatigue, or organ-related issues (e.g., liver, spleen, or lung problems). It’s also used in areas with a high risk of leishmaniasis to screen for past or recent exposure.
What to Expect During Testing
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort afterward. Results are qualitative (positive/negative) or semiquantitative (showing relative antibody levels).
What the Results Mean
Positive results suggest you may have been exposed to *Leishmania* parasites. However, exposure doesn’t always mean you have an active infection—some people may have antibodies without symptoms. Follow-up testing or clinical evaluation may be needed to confirm diagnosis.
Common Causes of False Results
False positives can occur if you’ve had a previous infection, received vaccines, or have autoimmune conditions. False negatives may happen if the infection is very recent or severe. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Leishmania Antibody Screening/Confirmation
Frequently asked questions
Leishmaniasis can cause severe illness if untreated, including long-term damage to organs. Early diagnosis helps guide treatment (e.g., medications like miltefosine or amphotericin B). Antibody tests are critical for identifying cases in regions where the disease is endemic.
No special preparation is needed, but avoid blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin) 24 hours before your test if your doctor advises it.
If you’ve traveled to a high-risk area recently, this test may be part of a broader evaluation for parasitic infections.
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