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Toxicity Screening for Giardia duodenalis (Giardia lamblia) Antibody Titers

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

This test measures your immune system’s response to Giardia, a common parasite found in contaminated water or food. It helps detect past or current infection.

Quick summary

["Checks for Giardia exposure by detecting antibodies in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42949-8
Short code
T gondii Ab Titr Ser
Synonyms
T gondii Ab Titr Ser
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 This Test Measures

The test looks for antibodies produced by your immune system in response to Giardia duodenalis, a microscopic parasite that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. These antibodies indicate whether you’ve been exposed to the parasite, even if you don’t currently have active symptoms.

Why It’s Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve had recent gastrointestinal issues (like diarrhea, stomach cramps, or bloating) that could be linked to Giardia, especially after traveling to areas with poor sanitation or after consuming contaminated water.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from your arm in a clinic or lab. The test is quick and painless.

What the Results Mean

If antibodies are found, it suggests you’ve been exposed to Giardia at some point. However, this doesn’t always mean you’re currently infected. Active infection would require additional testing (like stool samples).

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Giardia Antibody Test

Frequently asked questions

Why is this test important?
This test helps diagnose past exposure to Giardia, which can be useful for confirming a diagnosis if symptoms persist or if travel history suggests risk. It’s not a direct test for active infection but supports broader evaluation.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates your body has mounted an immune response to Giardia, but it doesn’t confirm whether you’re currently infected. Further testing (like a stool sample for parasite detection) may be needed for active infection confirmation.
Can I get Giardia from food or water?
Yes, Giardia is commonly spread through contaminated water (e.g., untreated springs, lakes) or food (e.g., raw vegetables washed in unsafe water). Symptoms may include diarrhea, nausea, or stomach pain, often lasting weeks.
  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