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Schistosoma Antibody Screening (Serum/Plasma)

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

This blood test detects antibodies to *Schistosoma* parasites, which can indicate past or current infection from freshwater snail-borne worms.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection linked to skin rashes, organ damage, or chronic illness."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5347-0
Short code
Schistosoma Ab Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
Schistosoma Ab Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 identifies antibodies produced by your immune system in response to exposure to *Schistosoma* parasites. These antibodies may appear months after infection and can linger for years. The test uses an immunoassay method to detect these antibodies in your serum or plasma.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Symptoms of schistosomiasis can range from mild (e.g., skin irritation) to severe (e.g., kidney/liver damage), so early detection helps guide treatment.

What to Expect During the Test

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s quick. No special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise.

Preparation and Results

No fasting is required. Results are typically available within 1–3 business days. A positive result suggests exposure but doesn’t confirm active infection—further testing may be needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Schisto Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

Can I get this test if I’ve never traveled to high-risk areas?
Not typically. This test is usually ordered for travelers, residents of endemic regions, or those with symptoms linked to schistosomiasis (e.g., chronic urinary/intestinal issues).
What if my test is positive but I don’t have symptoms?
A positive antibody test means your body has encountered *Schistosoma* parasites at some point, but symptoms may not appear until years later. Your doctor may recommend follow-up tests (e.g., stool/urine exams) to check for active infection.
Does this test show how severe my infection is?
No. Antibody tests only indicate exposure history. Severity is assessed through clinical symptoms, physical exams, and other diagnostic tests (e.g., imaging, parasite egg counts).
  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