Q Fever IgM and IgG, Titer, Serum
Use
Q fever, a rickettsial infection caused by Coxiella burnetii, has been recognized as a widely distributed zoonosis with the potential for causing both sporadic and epidemic disease. This test is used for diagnosing Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever. The resistance of C. burnetii to heat, chemical agents, and desiccation allows the agent to survive for extended periods outside the host. C. burnetii is spread by the inhalation of infected material, largely from dried sheep and goat reproductive material; the organism is also shed in feces, milk, nasal discharge, placental tissue, and amniotic fluid from ruminant animals. The clinical spectrum of disease ranges from unapparent to fatal. Respiratory manifestations usually predominate; endocarditis and hepatitis can be complications.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Serologic responses are time-dependent. Specimens collected too early in the disease may not have detectable antibody levels, necessitating a second specimen collection 2 to 3 weeks later may be necessary to detect antibody. Low-level positive titers (i.e., <1:256) may remain for prolonged periods following resolution of disease, potentially leading to misinterpretation of active infection status.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Indirect Immunofluorescence)
Biomarkers
Coxiella burnetii
Microorganism
LOINC Codes
- 77175-8 - C burnet Ph 1 + 2 IgG + IgM Pnl Ser
- 34716-1 - C burnet Ph1 IgG Titr Ser IF
- 34717-9 - C burnet Ph2 IgG Titr Ser IF
- 9710-5 - C burnet Ph1 IgM Titr Ser
- 9711-3 - C burnet Ph2 IgM Titr Ser
- 69048-7 - Immunologist review
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia, Gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 7 days |
| Frozen | 7 days |
