Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No special preparation is required.
- Turnaround: 1-4 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures IgG antibodies to Bordetella pertussis, the bacteria that causes whooping cough. It looks specifically at B pertussis IgG Ab, an IgG antibody your immune system may produce in response to past vaccination or prior infection.
This is an IgG-only test. A result showing these antibodies can help indicate prior exposure to Bordetella pertussis through vaccination or infection, but it does not on its own provide a complete picture of your immune status or confirm a specific diagnosis.
Benefits
- Checks for IgG antibodies related to Bordetella pertussis exposure
- Helps confirm prior vaccination or infection status
- Useful for meeting workplace or school immunity documentation requests
- Simple blood draw with no special preparation required
- Results available in a short turnaround window
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals asked to provide proof of pertussis immunity for work
- Students needing immunization documentation for school enrollment
- Adults wanting to check their Bordetella pertussis antibody status
- People unsure whether they still have immunity from past vaccination
- Individuals advised by a healthcare provider to check antibody status
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this IgG antibody test?
This test measures IgG antibodies to Bordetella pertussis, specifically B pertussis IgG Ab. It can help a healthcare provider evaluate whether you have antibodies related to prior vaccination or previous infection with the bacteria that causes whooping cough. This test does not, on its own, diagnose an active infection.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may benefit individuals who need to document immunity to Bordetella pertussis, such as for a workplace or institutional requirement. It may also suit people who want to check their antibody status related to past vaccination or infection. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if this test fits your situation.
3. When should I order this test?
You might consider ordering this test if you need to confirm prior vaccination or infection status for documentation purposes, or if you and your healthcare provider want to evaluate your Bordetella pertussis antibody status. This test is one piece of information and does not replace a full medical evaluation.
4. Does this test measure other antibody types?
This test measures only B pertussis IgG Ab. It does not measure IgA, IgM, IgE, or IgD antibodies, and it does not measure total IgG or IgG subclasses. Each antibody class provides different information, so this test cannot be used in place of testing for another antibody class.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required for this test.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 1-4 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your IgG result depends on the specific antibody target and your individual clinical context. Your healthcare provider may consider factors such as your vaccination history, prior symptoms, exposure history, and timing when reviewing your results. A positive result does not automatically confirm active infection, immunity, or protection, and a negative result does not rule out a condition. This result reflects IgG status only and should not be interpreted as information about IgA, IgM, IgE, or IgD antibodies.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your results fall outside expected ranges, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help you understand what the result may mean in the context of your health history and determine whether any additional evaluation or testing is appropriate.
9. How often should I get tested?
There is no set testing schedule for this test. How often you may want to check your Bordetella pertussis IgG antibody status should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider, based on your individual needs.
Pre test preparation
No special preparation is required.
