Toxicity Screening for Giardia duodenalis (Antibody) - Immunoassay

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you’ve recently traveled to areas with poor sanitation, have unexplained digestive symptoms (like chronic diarrhea, bloating, or nausea), or have a history of gastrointestinal infections. It’s also used to confirm a suspected Giardia infection in people who test positive for parasite eggs in stool samples.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, which usually takes a few minutes. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.

What to Expect During the Test

The test involves taking a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s generally quick and painless. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis to detect Giardia antibodies.

What the Results Mean

If your test results are positive, it means your body has produced antibodies against Giardia, suggesting past or current exposure. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found. However, a negative result doesn’t always rule out a Giardia infection, especially if symptoms are mild or recent.