Chlamydia Serology (IFA) – Avian & Exotics
Chlamydia Serology is a diagnostic test used to detect antibodies against Chlamydia spp., a group of obligate intracellular bacterial pathogens that can infect a wide range of animal species, including birds, reptiles. The test is typically performed using serological methods such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or immunofluorescence assay (IFA), which measure the presence of immunoglobulin classes (e.g., IgM and IgG) to identify acute or past infections. Chlamydia psittaci, in particular, is a significant pathogen in birds, where it causes avian chlamydiosis (psittacosis) with clinical signs such as respiratory distress, lethargy, and gastrointestinal upset. The infection is zoonotic, posing a health risk to humans, especially in cases of occupational exposure. In reptiles, Chlamydia spp. can lead to respiratory, systemic, or localized infections.
Test name
Chlamydia Serology (IFA) – Avian & Exotics
Test CodeA
A119
Section
Immunodiagnostics
Species
Avian & Exotics
Specimen
1 ml heparinized Plasma
Collection Guidelines.
- Collect an adequate amount of blood in a plain green-top tube
- Centrifuge to separate the plasma. Transfer the clear serum into a new, leak-proof plain red-top tube and label it as “Plasma.”
- Excessively hemolyzed samples are not suitable for this test.
- Unspun samples will not be accepted.
- Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Turnaround time
14-21 Days
Packing Instructions
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label. Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
References
- Sachse, K., et al. (2022). “Recent advances in the diagnosis and epidemiology of Chlamydia spp. infections in animals and humans.” Veterinary Microbiology, 270, 109454.
- Vermunt, A. M., et al. (2023). “Zoonotic Chlamydia psittaci in birds: Pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic techniques.” Journal of Avian Medicine and Surgery, 37(2), 123-134.
- Kaltenboeck, B., et al. (2021). “Serological testing for Chlamydia spp.: A critical tool for veterinary and public health.” Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 34(4), e00045-21.
- Knittler, M. R., et al. (2023). “Advances in serological and molecular diagnostics of chlamydial infections in animals.” Veterinary Research Communications, 47(1), 15-28.
