Ehrlichia chaffeensis Antibody, IgM by IFA
Use
This test is most useful for detecting IgM antibodies during the acute phase of Ehrlichia chaffeensis infection. The presence of IgM antibodies suggests a current or recent infection. However, low levels of these antibodies may occasionally persist for more than 12 months after infection. It is recommended that this test be used in conjunction with other tests, such as IgG E. chaffeensis antibody tests and PCR testing, for a comprehensive evaluation. The causative agent of human monocytic ehrlichiosis (HME), E. chaffeensis, is detected by this test, and HME is a tick-borne disease most commonly reported as 'spotless' or rashless Rocky Mountain spotted fever in various regions of the United States.
Special Instructions
Parallel testing with IgG E. chaffeensis antibodies is recommended, and convalescent specimens should be received within 30 days of the acute specimen. Specimens must be marked clearly to distinguish between acute and convalescent samples. The test is performed twice a week on Tuesdays and Fridays.
Limitations
A single IgM result should be interpreted with caution as IgM antibodies can persist for more than a year post-infection, which may not necessarily indicate an active infection. It is critical to evaluate IgM results in the context of clinical symptoms and other laboratory findings to avoid misdiagnosis.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Indirect Fluorescent Antibody)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 48850-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-5 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer into an ARUP standard transport tube.
Causes for Rejection
Contaminated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |