What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained seizures, persistent headaches, vision problems, or other neurological symptoms that might be caused by a parasitic infection. It helps detect antibodies to Cysticercus, the larval stage of the pork tapeworm that can infect the brain and nervous system. Many people use this test when they have neurological symptoms and a history of travel to areas where this parasite is common, or if their doctor suspects neurocysticercosis.

How should I prepare for this test?

This blood test typically requires no special preparation. You don't need to fast before the test, and you can take your regular medications unless your doctor advises otherwise. It's helpful to inform your healthcare provider about any recent travel history, especially to Latin America, Asia, or Africa, and any neurological symptoms you've been experiencing, as this information helps interpret your results.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your antibody test results mean for your health. These notes include personalized recommendations such as whether you need follow-up imaging studies, consultation with a neurologist or infectious disease specialist, or treatment options if infection is detected. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your results over time using our trends feature if monitoring or retesting is needed.

When will I get my results?

Results for this specialized Western Blot antibody test typically take 7-10 business days to process. The test requires sophisticated laboratory analysis to detect specific antibodies, which takes longer than routine blood work. You'll receive a notification as soon as your results are ready, and they'll be available in your secure online account along with easy-to-understand doctor notes.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for people experiencing unexplained seizures or neurological symptoms, especially those who have lived in or traveled to areas where cysticercosis is common, including parts of Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, India, and Southeast Asia. It's also recommended for individuals who have been exposed to poor sanitation conditions or have consumed potentially contaminated food or water. Anyone with family members diagnosed with tapeworm infection should also consider testing.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that may indicate cysticercosis include new-onset seizures or epilepsy in adults, persistent or severe headaches, vision changes or blurriness, dizziness or balance problems, and confusion or difficulty thinking clearly. Some people also experience muscle weakness, numbness, or hydrocephalus symptoms like nausea and vomiting. If you have any of these symptoms along with a history of travel to endemic areas or exposure to tapeworm infection, this test can help identify the cause.

What is cysticercosis and why does it matter?

Cysticercosis is an infection caused by the larval stage of the pork tapeworm (Taenia solium) that forms cysts in various body tissues, most seriously in the brain and nervous system. When cysts form in the brain (neurocysticercosis), they can cause seizures, headaches, and other serious neurological problems. It's one of the most common parasitic infections of the nervous system worldwide and a preventable cause of epilepsy, making early detection and treatment crucial.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means antibodies to Cysticercus were detected in your blood, indicating you've been exposed to the parasite at some point. This doesn't necessarily mean you currently have active cysts or infection, as antibodies can persist after successful treatment or resolved infection. Your doctor will typically order imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan to look for actual cysts and determine if treatment is needed.

What happens if my results are abnormal?

If your test shows positive antibodies, your doctor will likely order brain imaging (MRI or CT scan) to look for cysts and assess their location and severity. Treatment depends on the number, location, and stage of cysts, and may include anti-parasitic medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, or anti-seizure medications to manage symptoms. In some cases, surgical intervention may be needed. Your doctor will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific situation.

How can I prevent cysticercosis infection?

Prevention focuses on good hygiene and food safety practices. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before eating and after using the bathroom, especially when traveling. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked pork, and wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating, particularly in areas where the infection is common. Drink only bottled or boiled water in endemic regions, and ensure proper sanitation facilities are used to prevent the spread of tapeworm eggs.

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.

Parasite Test for Seizures & Headaches - Brain Health

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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