Babesia microti Antibody, IgG by IFA

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR54957Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 0093049CPT Code 86753

Babesia microti Antibody, IgG by IFA

Also known as: BAB IGG

Clinical Use

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Use

The Babesia microti Antibody, IgG test by IFA is used to detect IgG antibodies specific to Babesia microti, an intracellular parasite that causes the disease babesiosis. This test can help diagnose individuals infected with Babesia, particularly those presenting with flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, myalgia, fatigue, and hemolytic anemia. Detecting IgG antibodies may indicate a current or past infection with Babesia microti. It is especially relevant for patients with a history of tick exposure in endemic regions, and it may be used in conjunction with other serological tests, such as for IgM antibodies, to provide a broader diagnostic picture.

Special Instructions

Parallel testing is preferred, and convalescent specimens must be received within 30 days from receipt of the acute specimens. It's important to mark specimens plainly as 'acute' or 'convalescent.' This test is New York state approved, which allows it to be used in clinical settings within New York state. The test requires a serum specimen collected in an SST tube.

Limitations

This test may produce false-positive results due to cross-reactivity with antibodies from other organisms. False-negative results may occur if testing is conducted too early in the course of infection; thus, retesting after 10-14 days is recommended for equivocal results. The sensitivity of the test can vary, and it is not FDA approved but performed in a CLIA certified laboratory for clinical purposes. Test performance might be affected by factors such as the timing of specimen collection relative to infection onset, as well as the patient's immunocompetence.

Test Details

New York Approved