Test library
Tapeworm Antibody Test
The tapeworm Echinococcus IgG antibody test looks for antibodies against Echinococcus parasites. It helps support the evaluation of echinococcosis, an infection linked to contact with tapeworm eggs from certain animals.
Order Tapeworm (Echinococcus) IgG Antibody Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Tapeworm (Echinococcus) IgG Antibody Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $158
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The tapeworm Echinococcus IgG antibody test is a blood test that looks for antibodies the immune system makes against Echinococcus parasites. These tapeworms live in the intestines of animals such as dogs and can pass eggs that cause infection in people. The test supports the evaluation of echinococcosis when exposure or imaging findings raise concern. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the result alongside the person's history and other studies.
What this test measures
Echinococcus is a genus of tapeworm. The adult worms live in the intestines of animals such as dogs, and their eggs can be passed in feces. People can become infected by accidentally swallowing eggs, after which the parasite can form cysts in organs such as the liver and lungs. This condition is called echinococcosis, and it may stay silent for years before causing symptoms.
The test measures IgG antibodies against Echinococcus in a blood sample. IgG antibodies can appear once the immune system recognizes the parasite, so the assay can support a diagnosis when imaging or exposure history suggests infection. Results are reported as detected or not detected, sometimes with a level. Because antibody tests can have limitations, they are used together with imaging and other clinical information.
The test may be ordered for people with suspicious cysts found on imaging, for those with a known exposure history, and during follow-up of a diagnosed infection. A negative result does not always rule out infection, and a positive result does not reveal where the parasite is or how long it has been present. Clinicians interpret the findings with the full clinical picture.
- Echinococcus IgG antibodies
- Echinococcus granulosus antibodies
- Echinococcus multilocularis antibodies
- Species-specific antibody confirmation
- Total IgE when included
- Eosinophil count when included
- Imaging correlation markers when assessed
Why people order this test
- Support the evaluation of suspected echinococcosis
- Follow up on suspicious cysts seen on imaging
- Assess possible exposure to tapeworm eggs
- Monitor a diagnosed infection over time with a provider
- Provide laboratory context alongside imaging studies
- Investigate unexplained liver or lung cysts
How to prepare
No fasting is required. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually at the arm. Follow any instructions provided by the ordering provider.
Understanding your results
Results are generally available within one to three business days. A detected result supports the possibility of echinococcosis but does not confirm it alone, while a negative result does not fully rule out infection. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the findings with imaging, symptoms, and exposure history.
Tapeworm Antibody Test by state
Alabama
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Alabama.
Alaska
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Alaska.
Arizona
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Arizona.
Arkansas
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Arkansas.
California
Tapeworm Antibody Test across California.
Colorado
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Colorado.
Connecticut
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Connecticut.
Delaware
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Delaware.
Florida
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Florida.
Georgia
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Hawaii.
Idaho
Tapeworm Antibody Test across Idaho.
Related tests
12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 12 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
12 Panel Drug Testing
Compare 12 Panel Drug Testing options and order online.
7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 7 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test options and order online.
9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair
Compare 9 Panel Drug Test (Drugs of Abuse Testing), Hair options and order online.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Echinococcus?
It is a genus of tapeworm. Adult worms live in animals such as dogs, and their eggs can cause infection in people if swallowed, leading to cysts in organs.
How do people become infected?
Infection usually follows accidental ingestion of tapeworm eggs from contaminated soil, water, or surfaces, often through contact with an infected animal.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is drawn and analyzed for IgG antibodies that react to Echinococcus parasites.
Does a negative result rule out infection?
No. Antibody tests can miss infections for various reasons, so results are interpreted with imaging and clinical findings rather than on their own.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is not required for this blood test unless it is combined with another panel that needs it.
Is this test used for follow-up?
It can be. Healthcare providers sometimes use it along with imaging to track a diagnosed infection over time.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
Reviewed by the LabOrdering Editorial Team
Every page on this site is reviewed for clarity, sourcing, and accuracy. We update our library as testing options, collection networks, and accreditation standards change.