Campylobacter serology test is a blood test to look for antibodies to a bacteria called campylobacter.
A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture
The sample is sent to a lab, where tests are done to look for antibodies to campylobacter. Antibody production increases during the infection. In the initial stage of an illness, few antibodies may be detected. For this reason, serology tests are often repeated 10 days to 2 weeks later.
There is no special preparation.
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
This test is used to detect the presence of antibodies to campylobacter in the blood. Infection with campylobacter can cause aninfectious diarrheal illness. A blood test is rarely done to diagnose campylobacter diarrheal illness. It is commonly used if your doctor or nurse thinks you are having complications from this infection, such as reactive arthritis or Guillain-Barre syndrome.
No antibodies to campylobacter are present.
Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
An abnormal (positive) result means that antibodies against campylobacter have been detected. This means you have come in contact with the bacteria.
Tests are often repeated during the course of an illness to detect a rise in antibody levels. This rise helps to confirm an active infection. A low level may be a sign of a previous infection rather than a current disease.
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
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Updated by: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington. Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School; Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc.
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