Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum with Reflex to Western Blot

There are no preparation instructions.

$361
Add to

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

CYSTICERCUS AB (IGG), ELISA, SERUM W/REFL WB #11799

1 Biomarkers - Specimen Type: Serum

Biomarkers 1

CYSTICERCUS ANTIBODY,

*Important Information on Lab Test Processing Times: Ulta Lab Tests is committed to informing you about the processing times for your lab tests processed through a national lab. Please note that the estimated processing time for each test, indicated in business days, is based on data from the past 30 days across the 13 laboratories for each test. These estimates are intended to serve as a guide and are not guarantees. Factors such as laboratory workload, weather conditions, holidays, and the need for additional testing or maintenance can influence actual processing times. We aim to offer estimates to help you plan accordingly. Please understand that these times may vary, and processing times are not guaranteed. Thank you for choosing Ulta Lab Tests for your laboratory needs.

The Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum with Reflex to Western Blot test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker .

Brief Description: The Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum test is a specialized serological test used to detect the presence of IgG antibodies in the blood against Taenia solium larvae, the causative agent of cysticercosis. The test uses the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) methodology, which allows for sensitive and specific detection of antibodies indicative of an immune response to the parasitic infection. This diagnostic tool plays a critical role in identifying both symptomatic and asymptomatic infections, especially in individuals with potential exposure due to travel, endemic residence, or consumption of contaminated food or water. Since cysticercosis can affect various tissues—including the brain, muscles, and eyes—early detection is essential to initiate appropriate therapy and prevent complications.

Testing Method: ELISA

Collection Method: Blood Draw Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA Test Blood Draw | Ulta Lab Tests
Specimen Type: 1 mL Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required.

Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum Reflex to Western Blot | Ulta Lab Tests Reflex

If Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum is positive, then Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), Western Blot, Serum will be performed at an additional charge.

When and Why the Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum Test May Be Ordered

The Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum test is typically ordered when a healthcare provider suspects a current or past infection with Taenia solium larvae based on clinical symptoms, travel history, or exposure risk. Common symptoms that prompt testing include unexplained seizures, chronic headaches, neurological deficits, subcutaneous nodules, or visual disturbances—particularly in patients from or who have traveled to regions where cysticercosis is endemic, such as Latin America, sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Asia. The test may also be ordered in the workup of eosinophilia of unknown origin or in patients presenting with brain lesions on imaging. In some cases, it may be used to support diagnosis when other imaging or biopsy results are inconclusive.

What the Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum Test Checks For

The Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum test checks for the presence of specific IgG antibodies in the bloodstream that are produced in response to infection with the cystic form (larval stage) of Taenia solium, a pork tapeworm. When humans accidentally ingest T. solium eggs—typically through fecal-oral transmission—they may develop cysticercosis, in which the larvae form cysts in various body tissues. The ELISA method detects immune reactivity to antigens derived from the cysticerci, which helps confirm whether the immune system has been exposed to and is reacting against the parasite. A positive result suggests current or past infection, although it does not differentiate between active or resolved infection nor indicate the cysts' exact location. Therefore, results are interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and imaging studies such as CT or MRI.

Conditions the Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum Test Can Detect

The Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum test is primarily used to detect cysticercosis, including its most serious form, neurocysticercosis. Both conditions result from infection with the larval stage of Taenia solium.

Cysticercosis

Cysticercosis is a parasitic tissue infection caused by accidental ingestion of T. solium eggs. The larvae migrate through the bloodstream and form cysts in muscle, skin, eyes, and other tissues. Patients with cysticercosis may develop palpable nodules, muscle pain, or vision problems, depending on the cysts’ location. The ELISA test detects antibodies to the larval antigens, supporting diagnosis when imaging reveals cyst-like structures. A positive test in a patient with compatible signs and a relevant exposure history strongly indicates cysticercosis.

Neurocysticercosis

Neurocysticercosis occurs when cysts develop in the central nervous system, particularly the brain. It is the most severe form of cysticercosis and a leading cause of acquired epilepsy in endemic regions. Symptoms can include seizures, hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, or focal neurological deficits. The Cysticercus IgG ELISA test is especially useful in patients presenting with neurological symptoms and compatible brain imaging findings (such as ring-enhancing lesions). Serological confirmation helps distinguish neurocysticercosis from other causes of similar radiologic or clinical findings, such as tuberculomas or gliomas.

How a Healthcare Professional Would Use the Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum Test Results

In cases of cysticercosis, a positive antibody result supports the diagnosis in patients presenting with nonspecific symptoms like muscle pain, skin nodules, or visual changes. Once confirmed, healthcare providers may initiate antiparasitic treatment (such as albendazole or praziquantel), corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, or surgical intervention in cases involving accessible or symptomatic cysts. Follow-up may include repeat imaging or clinical monitoring to assess treatment effectiveness and resolution of symptoms. A negative test does not fully exclude infection, particularly in cases with single or calcified lesions, where antibody levels may be low or absent.

For neurocysticercosis, the ELISA result is used in conjunction with neuroimaging to confirm diagnosis. When imaging shows cystic lesions or calcifications, a positive antibody test strengthens the clinical suspicion of neurocysticercosis. The result helps guide the decision to begin antiparasitic therapy, often combined with corticosteroids and antiepileptic drugs. The antibody test is also useful for monitoring the immune response over time. In patients undergoing treatment, a decline in antibody titers may suggest successful reduction in parasite burden, although imaging remains essential for monitoring cyst resolution.

Conclusion

The Cysticercus Antibody (IgG), ELISA, Serum test is a vital tool in the diagnosis of cysticercosis and neurocysticercosis, parasitic infections with potentially serious complications if left untreated. By detecting the immune system’s response to Taenia solium larvae, this test aids in confirming exposure and guiding treatment decisions in conjunction with clinical evaluation and imaging studies. Its role in identifying these often-overlooked infections makes it an essential component of the diagnostic workup in patients from endemic regions or with suggestive symptoms. Early detection and proper management, informed by test results, can significantly improve patient outcomes.