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Schistosoma IgG Antibody (Serum) – Parasite-Specific Immunoglobulin G

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

This test measures the presence of antibodies to the parasite *Schistosoma*, which can cause chronic infections like schistosomiasis. It helps identify past exposure to the parasite, even if active infection is no longer present.

Quick summary

["This test detects past exposure to *Schistosoma* parasites, aiding in diagnosis of chronic infection or exposure risk."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33317-9
Short code
Schistosoma IgG Ser Ql
Synonyms
Schistosoma IgG Ser Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 *Schistosoma IgG*, a type of antibody produced by your immune system in response to past infection. IgG antibodies remain in your blood for years after exposure, making this test useful for detecting long-term exposure rather than active infection.

Why It Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you live in or have traveled to regions where *Schistosoma* infections are common (e.g., parts of Africa, South America, or Asia). It can also be used to monitor chronic infection in people who have previously tested positive for the parasite.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from your arm in a clinic or lab. The test is usually done as part of a routine blood draw.

What the Results Mean

A positive result indicates past exposure to *Schistosoma* parasites, suggesting you may have been infected at some point. A negative result means no detectable IgG antibodies were found, but this doesn’t rule out past exposure if testing was done too soon after infection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily useful for identifying chronic infection or exposure history, not for diagnosing active disease. While IgG antibodies indicate past exposure, they don’t always correlate with current symptoms or disease severity. Additional testing (e.g., stool exams for eggs) may be needed for active infection confirmation.

Short name

Schistosoma IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

How long do IgG antibodies last after infection?
IgG antibodies from *Schistosoma* infection can persist for many years, sometimes decades, depending on the individual’s immune response. They don’t typically disappear quickly after exposure, which is why this test is useful for long-term monitoring of exposure risk.
Can this test be used to diagnose active schistosomiasis?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose active infection. It only shows past exposure. For active disease, healthcare providers may use stool exams to detect parasite eggs or other diagnostic tests.
What if my test results are positive but I don’t have symptoms?
A positive result means you’ve likely been exposed to *Schistosoma* parasites at some point, but symptoms may not appear until years later. Chronic infection can sometimes cause long-term health effects like inflammation or organ damage, so follow-up with your doctor is important.
  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