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Toxicity Screening for Giardia lamblia (Qualitative Immunoassay)

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

This test checks for antibodies that indicate exposure to the Giardia parasite, which can cause intestinal infections.

Quick summary

A positive result suggests past or possible current infection with Giardia, a common cause of diarrhea.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47390-0
Short code
T gondii IgG Ser Dye Test-aCnc
Synonyms
T gondii IgG Ser Dye Test-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
dye-test
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 detects antibodies (immunoglobulins) produced by your immune system in response to Giardia exposure. These antibodies are found in your blood serum or plasma. While they don’t directly measure the parasite itself, they confirm your body has encountered Giardia.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you’ve experienced symptoms like persistent diarrhea, bloating, or stomach cramps, especially after traveling to areas with poor sanitation or after ingesting contaminated water.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests.

What the Results Mean

A positive result means your immune system has detected Giardia antibodies, indicating past or possible current infection. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, though this doesn’t rule out infection if symptoms persist.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Giardia is a common parasite causing gastrointestinal symptoms. While antibodies indicate exposure, they don’t always correlate with active infection. This test helps diagnose suspected cases, especially in travelers or those with recurrent diarrhea. Treatment may be recommended if infection is confirmed.

Short name

Giardia test (serum/plasma)

Frequently asked questions

Will this test show an active infection?
No, this test detects antibodies (indicating past exposure or immune response) rather than the parasite itself. For active infection confirmation, a stool sample or microscopic exam may be needed.
What if I have symptoms but the test is negative?
A negative result doesn’t always mean you’re not infected. Giardia antibodies may take time to develop. If symptoms persist, your doctor may repeat the test or order additional tests, such as a stool exam.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  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