Rickettsia rickettsii (Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever) Antibody, IgG
Also known as: RMSF G
Use
The Rickettsia rickettsii (Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever) Antibody, IgG test is designed to detect antibodies against Rickettsia rickettsii during the convalescent phase of the infection. A fourfold or greater rise in antibody titer between acute and convalescent sera is considered strong evidence of recent infection. The presence of antibodies is suggestive of current or past infection, contributing to the diagnosis of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a serious tick-borne disease.
Special Instructions
Specimens must be marked as 'acute' or 'convalescent' for proper testing. Parallel testing with acute and convalescent samples is preferred to confirm seroconversion. The convalescent sample should be received within 30 days of the acute sample.
Limitations
The test may exhibit cross-reactivity with other organisms within the Spotted Fever group, such as R. akari, R. conorrii, R. australis, and R. sibirica. Samples should ideally be tested simultaneously at the same facility to ensure consistent results. Repeated freeze/thaw cycles of the specimen should be avoided to maintain sample integrity.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Other)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5307-4
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 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 from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer serum to transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated after separation from cells
Causes for Rejection
Contaminated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles) |
