Brucella Antibody IgG Test
Short Name: Brucella IgG
Also known as: Brucella IgG Serology, Brucella Antibody Test, Brucellosis IgG Antibody, Brucella Agglutination Test, Brucella Immunoassay
Brucella Antibody IgG Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,346. Uses Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA/ELISA) on Serum samples. Results in Sample accepted Thursday by 6 PM; report available the next day. Digital reports delivered via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The Brucella Antibody IgG Test is performed to detect evidence of Brucella infection by identifying specific IgG antibodies in the blood. This test is used to confirm clinical suspicion of brucellosis, differentiate between acute and chronic phases of infection, monitor treatment effectiveness, and screen at-risk populations such as livestock handlers, dairy workers, and veterinarians. It aids in preventing misdiagnosis with other febrile illnesses such as typhoid, malaria, or tuberculosis.
- Test Code
- 229
- CPT Code
- 86622
- ICD Code
- A23
- Price
- ₹1,346
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Sample accepted Thursday by 6 PM; report available the next day. Digital reports delivered via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA/ELISA)
Sample Collection
No special preparation such as fasting is required before the Brucella Antibody IgG Test. Patients should inform the healthcare provider about any current medications, especially antibiotics, as these may affect test results.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect approximately 2 mL of venous blood from a vein in the arm using standard venipuncture technique. The blood is drawn into a Serum Separator Tube (SST). The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes.
Report Delivery
After sample collection, gentle pressure is applied to the puncture site with a cotton ball or gauze to stop bleeding. A small bandage is placed over the site. Patients may resume normal activities immediately. Mild bruising at the puncture site is normal and resolves within a few days.
Timeline: Sample accepted Thursday by 6 PM; report available the next day. Digital reports delivered via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The Brucella Antibody IgG Test is performed to detect evidence of Brucella infection by identifying specific IgG antibodies in the blood. This test is used to confirm clinical suspicion of brucellosis, differentiate between acute and chronic phases of infection, monitor treatment effectiveness, and screen at-risk populations such as livestock handlers, dairy workers, and veterinarians. It aids in preventing misdiagnosis with other febrile illnesses such as typhoid, malaria, or tuberculosis.
How to Prepare
- No fasting is required prior to sample collection
- Inform the phlebotomist about any medications currently being taken, especially antibiotics or immunosuppressants
- Wear a short-sleeved or loose-fitting shirt for easy access to the arm
- Stay hydrated before the test to make vein access easier
- Report any history of bleeding disorders or use of blood-thinning medications
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Brucellosis is an underdiagnosed zoonotic infection in India, often mistaken for other febrile illnesses. The Brucella IgG antibody test is a valuable serological tool that helps confirm exposure to Brucella bacteria, particularly in patients with persistent fever, joint pain, and a history of contact with livestock or unpasteurised dairy products. IgG antibodies indicate past or chronic infection and are useful for monitoring treatment response. I recommend this test for any patient presenting with undulating fever and occupational or dietary risk factors. Early detection and appropriate antibiotic therapy can prevent serious complications such as endocarditis, meningitis, and osteoarticular damage."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Haemolysed, lipaemic, or icteric samples
- Samples collected in incorrect tube type (non-SST)
- Samples received without proper labelling or patient identification
- Clotted samples in anticoagulant tubes
- Samples that exceed the stability period for the storage conditions
Understanding Your Results
Negative
No detectable Brucella IgG antibodies. If clinical suspicion remains high, repeat testing after 2–3 weeks or consider IgM testing and blood culture for acute infection.
Equivocal
Borderline antibody levels detected. Repeat testing in 2–3 weeks is recommended. Correlate with clinical symptoms and exposure history.
Positive (Low Titre)
Mildly elevated Brucella IgG antibodies detected. May indicate past infection, early chronic phase, or resolving infection. Clinical correlation is advised.
Positive (High Titre)
Significantly elevated Brucella IgG antibodies. Strongly suggests active chronic brucellosis or recent infection. Consult an infectious disease specialist for further evaluation and treatment initiation.
Consult a doctor if you experience persistent or recurrent fever, joint pain, fatigue, excessive sweating (especially night sweats), unexplained weight loss, or muscle aches — particularly if you have a history of contact with livestock, consumption of raw or unpasteurised dairy products, or reside in or have travelled to regions where brucellosis is endemic. Prompt medical evaluation is essential as untreated brucellosis can lead to serious complications including endocarditis, meningitis, and chronic arthritis.
Limitations
- ⚠This test detects only IgG antibodies; it does not indicate active acute infection alone — IgM and IgA testing may be needed for complete assessment
- ⚠Serological tests cannot distinguish between vaccine-induced and infection-induced antibodies in vaccinated individuals
- ⚠A single positive result does not confirm active disease; clinical correlation and supplementary testing (blood culture, PCR) are recommended
- ⚠Antibody titres may remain elevated for months after successful treatment, making it difficult to assess cure based solely on IgG levels
- ⚠This test is a screening tool; definitive diagnosis may require culture or molecular confirmation
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minor bruising or swelling at the blood draw site
- ●Slight pain or discomfort during venipuncture
- ●Rare risk of infection at the puncture site
- ●Very rare risk of fainting or dizziness during blood collection
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent antibiotic therapy may suppress antibody production and yield false-negative results
- ●Cross-reactivity with antibodies to Yersinia enterocolitica, Francisella tularensis, Vibrio cholerae, or Salmonella may produce false-positive results
- ●Immunocompromised patients may have reduced antibody response
- ●Early-stage infection (first 1–2 weeks) may not yet produce detectable IgG levels; IgM testing may be more appropriate in acute settings
- ●Haemolysed or lipaemic samples may interfere with ELISA-based detection
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Brucella Antibody IgG Test | Brucella Antibody IgM Test | Brucella Blood Culture | Brucella PCR Test | Rose Bengal Plate Agglutination Test (RBPT) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Brucella Antibody IgG Test | IgM antibodies indicate recent or acute infection, whereas IgG antibodies indicate past or chronic infection. Both may be ordered together for a comprehensive assessment. | Blood culture is the gold standard for definitive diagnosis but requires extended incubation (up to 21 days). Serological tests like IgG provide faster results and are used for screening and monitoring. | PCR detects Brucella DNA directly and is highly specific. It is useful in early infection before antibodies develop. The IgG test is more suitable for assessing immune response and chronic infection. | RBPT is a rapid screening test for brucellosis. It detects total antibodies (IgG and IgM) but has lower specificity than ELISA-based IgG testing. Positive RBPT results are typically confirmed with ELISA. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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