Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG
Understanding Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG
What is Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG?
The Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG test detects the presence of IgG antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis, a bacterium responsible for causing sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including chlamydia. IgG antibodies are produced by the immune system and may indicate past or ongoing (chronic) Chlamydia trachomatis infection.
Chlamydia is a common STI that can occur in men and women of all age groups. A Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG test helps in the detection and appropriate management of chlamydial infections thereby reducing the risk of complications, preventing transmission, and promoting sexual health.
The Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG test may be advised as a part of routine screening or for individuals with symptoms suggestive of a Chlamydia trachomatis infection such as abnormal pain, vaginal/urethral discharge, a burning sensation when passing urine, or painful intercourse. This test may also be recommended for individuals at risk of STIs such as those with a history of unprotected sexual activity, sexually active individuals, individuals with multiple sexual partners, or those with a history of STIs.
Pregnant women may undergo this test as part of routine prenatal screening to identify past exposure to Chlamydia trachomatis and assess the risk of transmission of infection from the mother to the baby during delivery. Additionally, the Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG test can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment, as well as to identify if an individual has been reinfected after successful recovery from a previous infection.
Usually, no special preparation is needed for this test. You may eat and drink as per your daily routine. However, it is preferred that you provide your clinical history before giving the sample. A positive test result indicates the presence of IgG antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis, suggesting a previous or chronic infection. However, a positive test result should be confirmed with a follow-up test (DNA PCR) to diagnose the infection. A negative test result suggests no previous infection. However, sometimes, the results may be negative in the early stages of the infection when the level of antibodies is insufficient for detection.
Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help the doctor to make informed decisions about your sexual health.
What is Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG used for?
The Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG test is done:
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To check for past and prolonged (chronic) or ongoing chlamydia infection.
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If you experience symptoms including burning or pain while passing urine, abnormal discharge from vagina or penis, lower abdominal pain, bleeding between periods in women, and pain and/or swelling in one or both testicles in men.
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In the case of sexually active individuals with HIV.
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In pregnant women who are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant, as chlamydia infection can have severe consequences for the developing baby.
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If you are 25 years and older with risk factors, such as new or multiple sex partners, or a sexual partner who has a sexually transmitted infection.
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To check the effectiveness of ongoing treatment for treating chlamydia infection.
What does Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG measure?
The Chlamydia Trachomatis, IgG test analyzes the levels of chlamydia antibodies IgG in the blood. The IgG antibody detection is a marker for a chlamydia-positive immune response, either for ongoing (chronic) or past infections. IgG antibodies against chlamydia trachomatis can be detected within 2-4 weeks after exposure and remain detectable even after the person has been treated successfully. However, abnormal results do not confirm an active infection, as IgG antibodies can persist even after successful treatment.