Schistosomiasis Serology (IgG Antibody) – 18/19

This blood test helps your healthcare provider check important levels in your blood and get a clearer picture of your overall health. The results can be used to screen for certain conditions, monitor a health issue you already have, or see how well a current treatment is working.

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent itching, skin rashes, abdominal pain, or unexplained blood in urine or stool. It’s also used in areas where schistosomiasis is common to screen for infection, especially in travelers or people with occupational exposure to freshwater.

Before your test, you can eat and drink as you normally would, since no fasting is needed. Keep taking your regular medications unless your provider tells you otherwise, and drink plenty of water, which can make your veins easier to find. Wear a shirt with a sleeve that can be rolled up comfortably for the blood draw.

No special preparation is needed. You’ll likely have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. If you’re pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications, let your provider know beforehand.

Your results will show whether the substances measured in your blood fall within the normal reference range. Values that are higher or lower than expected may point to a condition that needs attention, but they do not always mean something is wrong. Your provider will review your numbers with you, explain what they mean, and decide whether any follow-up testing or treatment is needed.

Positive results suggest past or current *Schistosoma* infection. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, but this doesn’t rule out infection if symptoms are present. False negatives can occur if testing is done too early after exposure.

This test is very safe, and serious problems are rare. You may notice a small bruise, mild soreness, or slight bleeding where the needle was inserted, and these usually go away within a day or two. Some people feel briefly dizzy or lightheaded during the draw. Contact your provider if you have lasting pain, swelling, redness, or signs of infection at the site.

Most people experience mild discomfort or bruising at the needle site. Rarely, you might have a slight fever or fatigue after the blood draw.