Interpretive Handbook
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Test 81480:
Ehrlichia Antibody Panel, Serum
Clinical Information 
Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test
See individual unit codes
Useful For Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful
As an adjunct in the diagnosis of ehrlichiosis
In seroepidemiological surveys of the prevalence of the infection in certain populations
Interpretation Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results
Serology for IgG may be negative during the acute phase of infection but a diagnostic titer usually appears by the third week after onset.
A positive immunofluorescence assay (IFA) (titer > or =1:64) suggests current or previous infection. In general, the higher the titer, the more likely the patient has an active infection. Four-fold rises in titer also indicate active infection.
Previous episodes of ehrlichiosis may produce a positive serology although antibody levels decline significantly during the year following infection.
Cautions Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances
Performance characteristics have not been established for hemolyzed or lipemic specimens.
Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.
<1:64
Clinical References Provides recommendations for further in-depth reading of a clinical nature
Fishbein DB, Dawson JE, Robinson LE: Human ehrlichiosis in the United States, 1985 to 1990. Ann Intern Med 1994;120:736-743
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