Rickettsia Antibody Panel Test
Short Name: Rickettsia Ab Panel
Also known as: Rickettsia Antibody Panel, Rickettsia Serology Panel, Spotted Fever and Typhus Antibody Panel
Rickettsia Antibody Panel Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹23,000. Uses Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) on Serum samples. Results in Samples received by the 7th of the month will have reports delivered after 2-3 weeks.. 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 Rickettsia Antibody Panel Test is to detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection with rickettsial organisms. The test helps confirm a diagnosis of spotted fever group (e.g., Rickettsia rickettsii, Rickettsia akari) or typhus group (e.g., Rickettsia typhi, Rickettsia prowazekii) infections. It is especially useful when clinical symptoms are non-specific and epidemiological history supports possible exposure.
- Test Code
- 3608
- Price
- ₹23,000
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Samples received by the 7th of the month will have reports delivered after 2-3 weeks.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
Sample Collection
No special preparation is needed. Please provide the duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) at the time of sample collection.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A trained phlebotomist will collect a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The process takes less than 5 minutes.
Report Delivery
You can resume your daily activities immediately. There may be slight bruising at the puncture site, which usually resolves quickly.
Timeline: Samples received by the 7th of the month will have reports delivered after 2-3 weeks.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Rickettsia Antibody Panel Test is to detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection with rickettsial organisms. The test helps confirm a diagnosis of spotted fever group (e.g., Rickettsia rickettsii, Rickettsia akari) or typhus group (e.g., Rickettsia typhi, Rickettsia prowazekii) infections. It is especially useful when clinical symptoms are non-specific and epidemiological history supports possible exposure.
How to Prepare
- A duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory.
- No fasting is required.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early diagnosis of rickettsial infections is critical to prevent severe complications. A high index of suspicion in patients presenting with fever and rash, especially with a history of tick exposure, should prompt serological testing."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- Improper labeling
- Sample received after the stability period is exceeded
Understanding Your Results
Positive IgG and positive IgM
Suggests current or recent rickettsial infection.
Positive IgG only
Suggests past infection or vaccination.
Negative IgG and negative IgM
No antibodies detected; however, if symptoms persist, repeat testing in 2-3 weeks is recommended.
Rising titers (four-fold increase in paired samples)
Confirms acute infection.
If you have a positive result, or if you continue to experience fever with rash despite a negative result, please consult an infectious disease specialist.
Limitations
- ⚠Antibodies may not be detectable in the first week of illness (window period)
- ⚠Cannot reliably distinguish between past and current infection with single sample
- ⚠Potential cross-reactivity among Rickettsia species
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal bruising at the puncture site
- ●Infections (rare)
- ●Excessive bleeding (rare)
Interfering Factors
- ●Recent antibiotic therapy may suppress antibody response
- ●Cross-reactivity with other bacterial infections (e.g., Leptospira, Ehrlichia)
- ●Immunocompromised patients may show false-negative results
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Rickettsia Antibody Panel Test | Dengue Serology | Malaria Antigen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Rickettsia Antibody Panel Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rickettsia Antibody Panel Test?
What does this test detect?
Who should get this test?
Is fasting required for this test?
What is the cost of the test?
How is the sample collected?
How long does it take to get results?
Are there any risks associated with the blood draw?
Can I get the sample collected at home?
What is the Test Send Out Consent Form?
What are the symptoms of Rickettsia infections?
How is the test result interpreted?
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