Pyruvate Pyruvic Acid Test
Short Name: Q Fever IgG/IgM Test
Also known as: Q Fever Antibodies Test, Coxiella burnetii Antibodies IgG & IgM, Q Fever Serology
Pyruvate Pyruvic Acid Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹13,000. Uses Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on Serum samples. Results in Reports are generally issued 2-3 weeks after the sample is received. Samples received by the 7th of the month are included in the relevant testing cycle.. 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 purpose of the Q Fever antibody test is to detect the immune response to Coxiella burnetii. IgM antibodies indicate recent or active infection, while IgG antibodies indicate exposure, convalescence, or past infection. The test is especially useful in patients with undifferentiated fever, atypical pneumonia, hepatitis-like illness, or a high-risk occupational exposure.
- Test Code
- 3589
- CPT Code
- 86638
- ICD Code
- A78
- Price
- ₹13,000
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Reports are generally issued 2-3 weeks after the sample is received. Samples received by the 7th of the month are included in the relevant testing cycle.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Sample Collection
No fasting is required. A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory. Please carry a valid photo ID and inform the lab of any medications or antibiotics you are taking.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect a small volume of blood from a vein in your arm. The procedure takes only a few minutes.
Report Delivery
You can go back to your normal routine. A little soreness or bruising at the needle site may occur but usually resolves quickly.
Timeline: Reports are generally issued 2-3 weeks after the sample is received. Samples received by the 7th of the month are included in the relevant testing cycle.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Q Fever antibody test is to detect the immune response to Coxiella burnetii. IgM antibodies indicate recent or active infection, while IgG antibodies indicate exposure, convalescence, or past infection. The test is especially useful in patients with undifferentiated fever, atypical pneumonia, hepatitis-like illness, or a high-risk occupational exposure.
How to Prepare
- Please carry the duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35).
- The sample must be collected in an SST and shipped refrigerated or frozen.
- Ensure the patient's name, date of birth, and collection date are clearly written.
- Inform the lab about any medicines or antibiotics taken before the test.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Q fever is easily missed because its symptoms overlap with many other febrile illnesses. A detailed exposure history and paired serology are important for an accurate diagnosis. Early testing helps identify recent infection and may prevent complications such as pneumonia, hepatitis, or chronic endocarditis."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample not accompanied by duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35)
- Improperly labelled sample
- Severely haemolysed or lipemic sample
- Sample stored or transported at an incorrect temperature
Understanding Your Results
No serological evidence of current or past Q fever infection. If symptoms persist and exposure is likely, re-test in 2-4 weeks.
Suggests acute or early Q fever infection. IgM typically peaks around 3 weeks after symptom onset.
Consistent with recent or current Q fever infection.
Suggests past Q fever infection or late convalescent phase. IgG can persist for up to a year.
Consult a doctor if you have fever, severe headache, muscle pain, dry cough, or known exposure to farm animals, unpasteurized milk, or contaminated dust. Do not treat symptoms without medical advice.
Limitations
- ⚠Serology may be negative during the first 1-2 weeks after symptom onset.
- ⚠A single sample may not be sufficient; paired acute and convalescent samples are preferred.
- ⚠IgG positivity alone cannot distinguish past infection from current infection.
- ⚠Results should always be interpreted with the patient's clinical features and exposure history.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Bruising at the venipuncture site
- ●Dizziness or fainting during blood collection
- ●Small risk of infection or haematoma
Interfering Factors
- ●Antibiotics taken before the blood draw may delay or suppress antibody production and can cause false-negative results.
- ●Immunosuppressive conditions or therapy may reduce antibody levels.
- ●Cross-reactivity with other rickettsial species can occur in some serological assays.
- ●Very early infection may be seronegative; a repeat sample after 2-4 weeks is often needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Q fever?
What does the Q Fever IgG and IgM test detect?
What is the difference between IgG and IgM antibodies?
Why has my doctor ordered this test?
Do I need to fast before the test?
What type of sample is required?
Is the Test Send Out Consent Form mandatory?
What is the cost of the test at DNA Labs India?
How soon will I get the report?
Is home sample collection available?
What does a positive IgM result mean?
Can this test be performed during pregnancy?
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