Babesia microti Antibody, IgM by IFA
Also known as: BAB IGM
Use
This test is used to detect IgM antibodies to Babesia microti, which may indicate a current or recent infection. Babesia microti is a protozoan parasite that causes babesiosis, a malaria-like disease transmitted by ticks, primarily in the northeastern and upper midwestern United States. Detection of IgM antibodies can suggest an acute or recent infection with Babesia microti, as IgM is the first antibody produced in response to the infection.
Special Instructions
Parallel testing is preferred and convalescent specimens must be received within 30 days from receipt of the acute specimens. All specimens should be marked clearly as 'acute' or 'convalescent' for appropriate processing and analysis.
Limitations
This test has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration but has been developed and its performance characteristics have been determined by ARUP Laboratories. It is performed in a CLIA certified laboratory and is intended for clinical purposes. False positives or negatives may occur; equivocal results may require repeat testing in 10-14 days. The assay is semi-quantitative, relying on indirect fluorescent antibody techniques, and results should be interpreted in the context of clinical presentation and patient history.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Other)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 16118-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 0.5 mL serum to an ARUP standard transport tube. (Min: 0.4 mL)
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated transport required.
Causes for Rejection
Bacterially contaminated, hemolyzed, or lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles) |