Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Human Granulocytic Ehrlichiosis) Antibody, Serum
Use
This test is useful as an adjunct in the diagnosis of human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (anaplasmosis) and for conducting seroepidemiological surveys to determine the prevalence of the infection in specific populations. Anaplasma phagocytophilum is an intracellular bacterium transmitted by Ixodes species ticks, causing human granulocytic anaplasmosis (HGA). Symptoms in healthy individuals are generally mild, including fever, myalgia, arthralgia, and nausea. It's prevalent in areas endemic for Lyme disease like the upper Midwest of the United States.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Performance characteristics have not been established for hemolyzed or lipemic specimens. In rare instances, direct microscopic examination of stained peripheral blood buffy coat smears may reveal morulae but is a very insensitive diagnostic method. Previous episodes of the disease may produce a positive serologic result, which should be considered when interpreting results. Additionally, serologic tests are often nonreactive during the acute phase, necessitating PCR testing for diagnosis in such cases.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA))
Biomarkers
Anaplasma phagocytophilum IgG
Antibody
LOINC Codes
- 23877-4 - A phagocytoph IgG Titr Ser IF
- 23877-4 - A phagocytoph IgG Titr Ser IF
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.4 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus, heat-inactivated specimen
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |