Schistosoma IgM Antibody, Serum
This test detects antibodies in your blood that may indicate past or recent exposure to the parasitic worm *Schistosoma*, which causes schistosomiasis—a condition spread through contaminated freshwater.
["Helps identify potential past infection by the parasite *Schistosoma* that causes schistosomiasis."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13278-7
- Short code
- Schistosoma IgM Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Schistosoma IgM 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
- 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 IgM* antibodies in your serum. IgM is an early immune response protein that your body produces shortly after exposure to the parasite. This test is often used to screen for or confirm a recent infection, though it may not detect current infection as reliably as other tests.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve traveled to or live in regions where schistosomiasis is common, have symptoms like fever, rash, or gastrointestinal issues, or if you’ve had contact with freshwater sources in endemic areas.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
What the Results Mean
Positive results suggest recent exposure to *Schistosoma* parasites, but they don’t always confirm active infection. False positives can occur, especially if you’ve had prior exposure. Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of your medical history and symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by *Schistosoma* worms, which can cause chronic inflammation, organ damage, and serious health issues if untreated. While IgM antibodies indicate past or recent exposure, they don’t always correlate with current infection. Other tests (like stool or urine exams) may be needed to diagnose active infection.
Short name
IgM Antibody to Schistosoma (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test detect current infection?
Is there any risk or discomfort with this test?
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