What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing swollen lymph nodes, unexplained fever, fatigue, or a scratch or bite from a cat that hasn't healed normally. It checks for antibodies your body makes in response to Bartonella henselae, the bacteria behind cat scratch disease. It's especially useful if symptoms started after contact with a cat, particularly kittens.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what's considered a normal versus elevated range. If your IgG levels are elevated, the report may recommend reflex testing to a titer for more detail, and simple next steps like monitoring symptoms or retesting are outlined for you. You can download a standard lab report anytime for your records, and if you test again later, the trends feature lets you compare results side by side. If your results suggest an active infection, it's a good idea to seek medical care promptly, especially if you have ongoing fever or swelling.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with recent cat exposure, especially scratches or bites, who develops swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, low-grade fever, or a skin bump near the injury should consider this test. It's also useful for people with weakened immune systems who've had cat contact, since infections can be harder to fight off. Pet owners, veterinary workers, and parents of kids who play with cats are common candidates.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include a red bump or blister at the site of a scratch or bite, swollen and tender lymph nodes near that area, low-grade fever, headache, and general tiredness. Some people also notice a poor appetite or muscle aches. If these symptoms appear one to three weeks after cat contact, this test can help confirm what's going on.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. You'll get a notification once they're posted to your account, where you can view the full report and reference ranges. If a reflex titer test is triggered by your initial result, that may add a small amount of time to the overall turnaround.

How can I naturally support recovery from a Bartonella infection?

Supporting your immune system with good sleep, hydration, and a nutrient-rich diet full of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help your body fight off infection. Reducing stress and avoiding smoking or excess alcohol also gives your immune system a better chance to respond. Keeping any scratch or bite wound clean and watching it for changes is important too. These steps support recovery but don't replace medical care if symptoms worsen or persist.

What does high Bartonella henselae IgG mean?

A high or rising IgG level suggests your body has been exposed to Bartonella henselae and is producing antibodies against it, which can indicate a current or recent infection. Because IgG can stay elevated after an infection has resolved, a single high result doesn't always mean you're still sick — this is why comparing two samples over time is often more useful. If your titer is high along with active symptoms, seeking medical care is a good next step.

What causes a Bartonella henselae infection?

This infection, commonly called cat scratch disease, is usually caused by a scratch, bite, or even a lick from a cat carrying the bacteria in its saliva or claws. Kittens are more likely to carry and transmit the bacteria than adult cats. Fleas can also spread the bacteria between cats, which is part of why flea control matters for pet owners.

How often should I retest?

If you're being monitored for a recent infection, retesting about 2 to 4 weeks after your first test is common, since a rising IgG level between two samples helps confirm an active or recent infection. If your first test is negative but symptoms continue, retesting can catch an infection that was too early to detect the first time. Once symptoms resolve and levels stabilize, ongoing retesting usually isn't needed.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your IgG comes back elevated or your titer is rising, keep track of your symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fever, or fatigue, and note when they started. Rest, stay hydrated, and keep any wound site clean while your body fights the infection. If you notice worsening symptoms, high fever, or symptoms lasting more than a few weeks, seek medical care promptly.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Bartonella IgG Test - Cat Scratch Disease Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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