What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained fever, headaches, bone pain, or fatigue that won't go away, especially if you've had exposure to body lice or live in crowded or unsanitary conditions. It also helps if you have symptoms like skin lesions or heart valve problems that could point to a Bartonella quintana infection. Getting tested can help explain symptoms that other tests haven't been able to pin down.

What's included in this test?

This test checks for two types of antibodies your immune system makes in response to Bartonella quintana bacteria. IgM antibodies typically show up first and suggest a recent or active infection, while IgG antibodies tend to appear later and can indicate past exposure or a longer-lasting infection. If initial results are unclear, a reflex titer test automatically runs to give a more precise antibody level.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with each value's normal range explained in plain language, so you know exactly what your antibody levels mean. If your IgG or IgM levels come back positive, the report will explain what steps to consider next, and if titers were needed, those results will be included too. You can download a standard lab report anytime from your account, and if you get tested again in the future, the trends feature lets you track changes over time.

How can I naturally support my immune system while dealing with this infection?

Getting enough sleep, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and staying hydrated all help your immune system fight off bacterial infections more effectively. Reducing stress through light exercise or relaxation techniques can also support your body's natural defenses. Avoiding exposure to body lice, which spread Bartonella quintana, is one of the most important prevention steps you can take. That said, if you suspect an active infection, seek medical care promptly since antibiotics are typically needed to clear it.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days from when your sample is collected. The exact timing can vary slightly depending on lab processing and whether the reflex titer step is triggered. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are ready to view in your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for people with unexplained, persistent fever or fatigue, especially those who have had contact with body lice or homeless shelter environments where trench fever is more common. It's also useful for people with heart valve issues of unknown cause, since Bartonella quintana can cause a type of heart infection called endocarditis. Anyone with unusual skin growths or lesions and a history of possible exposure may also want to consider testing.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include recurring fever, severe headaches, bone pain (especially in the shins), and general fatigue that lasts for weeks. Some people also develop skin lesions called bacillary angiomatosis or unexplained heart problems. If you've had lice exposure or live in crowded conditions and have these symptoms, testing can help identify the cause.

What does a positive IgG or IgM result mean?

A positive IgM usually means you have a recent or active infection, since these antibodies show up early in the immune response. A positive IgG often means you were exposed at some point, either recently or in the past, and your immune system built longer-term defenses against the bacteria. Higher titers, if measured, can indicate a stronger or more active immune response.

What causes a Bartonella quintana infection?

This infection is spread mainly through body lice, which pick up the bacteria from an infected person and transmit it to others through their feces getting into skin breaks or scratches. It's historically linked to crowded, unsanitary living conditions, which is why it's sometimes called trench fever. People experiencing homelessness or living in close group settings have a higher risk of exposure.

How often should I retest?

If you test negative but symptoms continue, retesting after a few weeks can help catch an infection that was too early to detect the first time. If you test positive, your results report will explain reasonable timing for a follow-up test to check whether antibody levels are changing. Otherwise, this isn't a test most people need to repeat regularly unless new symptoms or exposure occur.

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 Quintana Antibody Test - Trench Fever Check

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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