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Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test

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Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test

Short Name: Hydatid IgG Test

Also known as: Hydatid Serology IgG Test, Echinococcus IgG Antibody Test, Hydatid IgG ELISA, Cystic Echinococcosis Antibody Test

Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,404. Uses Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA) on Serum samples. Results in Sample collection: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday by 9 AM. Report: Same day.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Serology🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal

Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal

Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

The primary purpose of the Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test is to detect the presence of IgG antibodies specific to Echinococcus granulosus in the blood. This test aids in the diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis (hydatid disease), monitors the immune response to the infection, and supports clinical decision-making when combined with imaging studies. It is particularly valuable for screening individuals at risk, confirming suspected cases, and evaluating treatment response over time.

Test Code
511
CPT Code
86682
ICD Code
B67.9
Price
₹1,404
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Sample collection: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday by 9 AM. Report: Same day.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA)
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation or fasting is required. Inform your doctor about any medications, recent travel history, or known exposure to infected animals.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A healthcare professional will collect approximately 2 mL of blood from a vein in your arm using standard venipuncture technique. The procedure typically takes less than 5 minutes.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply gentle pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball or bandage. Normal activities can be resumed immediately. Mild bruising at the site is common and resolves on its own.

Timeline: Sample collection: Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday by 9 AM. Report: Same day.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. Inform your doctor about your medical history, medications, and any known exposure to animals or travel to endemic regions.
2
During the Test:A blood sample of approximately 2 mL will be drawn from a vein in your arm. The process is quick, typically completed within a few minutes, and involves minimal discomfort.
3
After the Test:You can resume normal activities immediately after the blood draw. A small bandage will be placed over the puncture site. Mild soreness or bruising may occur but typically resolves within a day.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The primary purpose of the Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test is to detect the presence of IgG antibodies specific to Echinococcus granulosus in the blood. This test aids in the diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis (hydatid disease), monitors the immune response to the infection, and supports clinical decision-making when combined with imaging studies. It is particularly valuable for screening individuals at risk, confirming suspected cases, and evaluating treatment response over time.

How to Prepare

  • No fasting or special dietary restrictions required prior to sample collection
  • Stay well hydrated before the blood draw
  • Wear clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up
  • Inform the phlebotomist if you have a history of bleeding disorders or are on anticoagulant therapy
  • The blood sample will be collected in a 2 mL SST tube and shipped refrigerated or frozen

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670

"Echinococcosis remains underdiagnosed in India due to its slow progression and non-specific early symptoms. I recommend this IgG serology test for any patient presenting with unexplained hepatic or pulmonary cysts on imaging, or for individuals with a history of close contact with dogs or livestock in endemic rural areas. A positive result should always be correlated with imaging findings such as ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment. Early detection significantly improves outcomes and reduces the risk of life-threatening complications such as cyst rupture and anaphylaxis."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room Temperature: Up to 6 hours
Refrigerated (2–8°C): Up to 72 hours
Frozen (≤ -20°C): Up to 2 weeks
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed, lipemic, or contaminated serum samples
  • Samples collected in incorrect tube type (non-SST)
  • Samples received beyond the stability window
  • Insufficient sample volume (less than 1 mL serum)
  • Unlabeled or mislabeled samples

Understanding Your Results

The Echinococcus IgG Serum Test result should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare professional in the context of the patient's clinical history, symptoms, exposure risk, and imaging findings. A positive IgG result indicates the immune system has produced antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus, suggesting current or past infection. A negative result does not completely rule out infection, especially in early stages or in immunocompromised individuals.
📊

Negative (<1:16)

No detectable IgG antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus. This generally indicates no current or past infection. However, early infection or immunosuppression may produce false-negative results. Clinical correlation with imaging is recommended if symptoms persist.

📊

Equivocal / Borderline

A borderline result is inconclusive and may require repeat testing after 2–4 weeks. Correlation with clinical findings and imaging is essential. Your physician may order additional tests for confirmation.

📊

Positive (≥1:16)

IgG antibodies detected, suggesting current or past infection with Echinococcus granulosus. Positive results should be confirmed with imaging (ultrasound, CT scan, X-ray) to identify and localize hydatid cysts. Treatment decisions should be made by a specialist based on the full clinical picture.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a doctor if you experience persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, nausea, vomiting, or fever, especially if you have a history of contact with dogs, livestock, or have traveled to endemic areas. A positive test result warrants immediate consultation with an infectious disease specialist or gastroenterologist for further evaluation and management.

Limitations

  • ⚠Cannot differentiate between active and past infection based solely on IgG positivity
  • ⚠Sensitivity may be reduced for cysts in certain locations such as bone or brain
  • ⚠Cross-reactivity with other helminth infections may produce false-positive results
  • ⚠Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and imaging studies
  • ⚠This test does not replace imaging modalities for localization and characterization of cysts

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Minor bruising or swelling at the venipuncture site
  • ●Slight pain or discomfort during blood draw
  • ●Very rare risk of infection at the puncture site
  • ●Very rare risk of fainting or dizziness during blood collection

Interfering Factors

  • ●Cross-reactivity with other parasitic infections such as cysticercosis or other cestode infections
  • ●Immunosuppressed patients may produce lower antibody levels, leading to false-negative results
  • ●Very early infection before seroconversion may yield a negative result
  • ●Hemolyzed or lipemic serum samples may interfere with assay accuracy
  • ●Previous treatment may reduce antibody titers over time

Compare With Similar Tests

TestEchinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum TestEchinococcus IgG ELISAAbdominal UltrasoundCT ScanHydatid Cyst Fluid Analysis
ComparisonEchinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum TestSerological method detecting antibodies; useful for screening and confirmation but cannot localize cysts.Imaging modality that visualizes cyst location, size, and characteristics; does not detect antibody response.Detailed cross-sectional imaging for precise cyst localization and assessment of complications; complementary to serology.Direct examination of aspirated cyst fluid for protoscoleces; invasive and carries risk of anaphylaxis or secondary spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test?
The Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test is a blood test that detects IgG antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection with the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. This parasite causes hydatid disease (cystic echinococcosis), which leads to the formation of fluid-filled cysts primarily in the liver and lungs.
Why is the Echinococcus IgG test recommended?
This test is recommended when a doctor suspects hydatid disease based on symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or fever, or when imaging studies reveal unexplained cystic lesions in the liver, lungs, or other organs. It is also recommended for individuals with known exposure to infected dogs or livestock, or those living in endemic rural areas.
What sample is required for this test?
The test requires 2 mL (minimum 1 mL) of serum collected in a Serum Separator Tube (SST) through standard venipuncture. The sample is then shipped refrigerated or frozen to the laboratory for analysis using Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA).
Do I need to fast before the Echinococcus IgG test?
No, fasting is not required for this test. No special preparation is needed before sample collection. You may eat and drink normally and continue your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise.
What does a positive Echinococcus IgG result mean?
A positive result means that IgG antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus have been detected in your blood, suggesting a current or past infection with the parasite. A positive result should be correlated with imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray) to confirm the presence and location of hydatid cysts. Your doctor will determine the appropriate course of treatment.
What does a negative Echinococcus IgG result mean?
A negative result indicates that no detectable IgG antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus were found. However, a negative result does not completely rule out infection, especially in very early stages before seroconversion or in immunocompromised patients. If clinical suspicion remains high, your doctor may recommend repeat testing or additional diagnostic methods.
What is the cost of the Echinococcus Hydatid IgG Serum Test at DNA Labs India?
The Echinococcus (Hydatid Serology) IgG Serum Test at DNA Labs India costs INR ?1404. This price includes free home sample collection for online bookings across India, including major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, and many more.
How long does it take to get the test results?
Samples are collected on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday by 9 AM, and reports are typically available the same day. You can access your results through our online portal, via email, or through WhatsApp.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for the Echinococcus Hydatid IgG Serum Test when booked online. Our trained phlebotomist will visit your home at the scheduled time to collect the blood sample. This service is available across numerous cities throughout India.
Who should get the Echinococcus IgG test?
This test is recommended for individuals who have symptoms suggestive of hydatid disease, those with imaging findings of unexplained cysts, people with occupational or household exposure to dogs or livestock, residents of or travelers to endemic areas, and patients undergoing follow-up after hydatid cyst treatment.
How is Echinococcus infection transmitted to humans?
Humans become infected by accidentally ingesting the microscopic eggs of Echinococcus granulosus, which are shed in the feces of infected dogs (the definitive host). Transmission can occur through direct contact with infected dogs, consumption of contaminated food or water, or handling contaminated soil. The eggs hatch in the intestine, and the larvae travel through the bloodstream to form cysts in organs.
Can the Echinococcus IgG test detect all types of hydatid disease?
This test primarily detects antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus, which causes cystic echinococcosis. It may have limited sensitivity for detecting infections caused by other Echinococcus species such as E. multilocularis (alveolar echinococcosis). Cross-reactivity with other parasitic infections can also occur. Results should always be interpreted alongside clinical findings and imaging studies for accurate diagnosis.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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