Ehrlichia chaffeensis Antibodies (IgG, IgM) with Reflex to Titers
Order Code
ECHRF
Test Summary
This test is for the detection of IgG and IgM antibodies against Ehrlichia chaffeensis to aid in the diagnosis of Ehrlichiosis (human monocytic ehrlichiosis). Ehrlichiosis is a tickborne disease caused by transmission of the bacteria via the bite of an infected tick. It is most common in the eastern to southeastern and south-central United States.
Testing for E. chaffeensis is based on a clinical evaluation and risk of tick exposure with consideration to the geographic region. Symptoms may be nonspecific, including headache, fever/chills, malaise, myalgia, gastrointestinal symptoms, and rash. Infection can have similarities with other tickborne illnesses with overlapping vectors, geographic endemicity, and similar clinical signs and symptoms, including Anaplasma spp, Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) and Babesia microti.
Negative results can occur early in infection. Nucleic acid amplification tests are the preferred method for diagnosis during acute infection. Seroconversion or a four-fold increase between acute and convalescent sera can be used to support a diagnosis. The presence of IgG alone may indicate past infection, and IgM may persist for many months after infection has resolved. Antibody levels may remain elevated for several years after acute illness. Cross-reactivity between related organisms Anaplasma and Ehrlichia spp, can occur. Therefore, interpretation of serologic results is done in the context of pertinent clinical picture, including timing from symptom onset.
Aliases
N/A
Specimen Collection
Special Instructions
N/A
Preferred Specimen
1 mL serum
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Instructions
N/A
Patient Preparation
N/A
Storage
Transport tube
Transport Temperature
Specimen Stability
- Room temperature: 7 days
- Refrigerated: 14 days
- Frozen: 30 days
Limitations
N/A
Other Acceptable Specimens
N/A
Unacceptable Specimens
N/A
Order Code
ECHRF
EPIC (Premier) Code
LAB6969
Includes
Ehrlichia chaffeensis Antibodies (IgG,IgM).
If E. chaffeensis (IgG) is Detected, then E. chaffeensis (IgG) Titer will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 86666).
If E. chaffeensis (IgM) is Detected, then E. chaffeensis (IgM) Titer will be performed at an additional charge (CPT code(s): 86666).
CPT Code
86666 (x2)
Billing Code
671359
CPT Statement
Methodology
Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
FDA Status
This test was developed and its analytical performance characteristics have been determined by Quest Diagnostics. It has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The FDA has determined that such clearance or approval is not necessary. This assay has been validated pursuant to the CLIA regulations and is used for clinical purposes.
Physician Attestation of Informed Consent
N/A
Testing Laboratory
14225 Newbrook Drive
Chantilly VA, 20153
Department
Reference Range
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgG), Screen Not Detected
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgM), Screen Not Detected
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgG), Titer <1:64 titer
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgM), Titer <1:20 titer
Setup Schedule / Expected Turnaround Time
Monday, Wednesday - Saturday; Report available: 1 - 3 days
Specimen Collection
Special Instructions
N/A
Preferred Specimen
1 mL serum
Minimum Volume
0.2 mL
Instructions
N/A
Patient Preparation
N/A
Storage
Transport tube
Transport Temperature
Specimen Stability
- Room temperature: 7 days
- Refrigerated: 14 days
- Frozen: 30 days
Limitations
N/A
Other Acceptable Specimens
N/A
Unacceptable Specimens
N/A
Result Information
Methodology
Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Testing Laboratory
Reference Range
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgG), Screen Not Detected
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgM), Screen Not Detected
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgG), Titer <1:64 titer
E. chaffeensis Ab (IgM), Titer <1:20 titer
Setup Schedule / Expected Turnaround Time
Monday, Wednesday - Saturday; Report available: 1 - 3 days