What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, or skin bumps after contact with cats or exposure to lice. It also helps if you have symptoms of a lingering infection that hasn't been explained by other testing, especially if you've been scratched or bitten by a cat. This panel checks for antibodies your body makes when fighting a Bartonella infection, which causes cat scratch disease and trench fever.

What's included in this test?

This panel checks IgM and IgG antibodies against two Bartonella species, with automatic reflex testing to titers when results come back positive. IgM antibodies show up early and suggest a recent infection, while IgG antibodies can indicate either a past or ongoing infection, especially when titers are high. Testing both antibody types together gives a fuller picture of whether you have an active or past Bartonella infection.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with each value's normal range clearly explained so you know what's positive, negative, or borderline. If your IgM or IgG antibodies come back positive, the report will automatically include titer levels to show how strong the immune response is. If a value is significantly elevated or you're feeling seriously unwell, seek medical care right away. You can download a standard lab report anytime and use the trends feature to track your antibody levels if you retest later.

How can I naturally support my immune system while recovering?

Getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein all help your immune system fight off bacterial infections like Bartonella. Reducing stress and avoiding smoking or excess alcohol can also support your body's natural defenses. If you have cats, keeping them flea-free and washing scratches or bites promptly can help prevent reinfection. These steps support recovery but don't replace appropriate medical care if symptoms are severe.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. If your initial results are positive, the lab automatically runs a reflex titer test, which may add a little extra time before your final report is complete. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with unexplained fever, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, or a skin lesion after a cat scratch or bite should consider this test. It's also useful for people exposed to body lice, those with symptoms of endocarditis that haven't been explained by blood cultures, or people with weakened immune systems showing unusual skin growths. If you've had ongoing symptoms without a clear diagnosis, this panel can help identify or rule out Bartonella infection.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include a low-grade fever, tender or swollen lymph nodes (especially near a cat scratch), fatigue, headache, and sometimes a rash or small bumps on the skin. People with trench fever may notice recurring fevers along with bone or joint pain. If you've had prolonged unexplained fevers or a heart infection that blood cultures couldn't explain, Bartonella should be considered.

What does a high antibody titer mean?

A high IgG titer, especially 1:800 or above, suggests a strong immune response and may point to an active or more serious infection, such as endocarditis. A positive IgM usually means the infection is more recent. High results don't automatically mean you need treatment, but they're an important sign to consider along with your symptoms. If you have a high titer and are feeling unwell, seek medical care promptly.

What causes a positive Bartonella result?

A positive result usually means you've been exposed to Bartonella henselae or Bartonella quintana, most often through a cat scratch or bite, exposure to fleas, or contact with body lice. Cats, especially kittens, are the most common source of B henselae, while body lice typically spread B quintana in crowded or unsanitary living conditions. Sometimes cross-reactivity between the two species can make it hard to tell exactly which one caused the infection.

How often should I retest?

If your first test shows a borderline or unclear result, retesting after 2 to 4 weeks can help confirm whether antibody levels are rising, which points to an active infection. If you've had a confirmed positive result and are monitoring recovery, retesting every few months can help track whether your antibody titers are going down over time. Use the trends feature in your account to easily compare results across multiple tests.

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 Antibody Test - Cat Scratch & Trench Fever

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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