What is an Ascariasis Serology Test?

The Ascariasis Serology Test is a blood test that detects antibodies to Ascaris lumbricoides, a parasitic roundworm that commonly infects the intestines. Infection occurs when microscopic Ascaris eggs, usually found in contaminated food, water, or soil, are ingested. Once inside the body, larvae hatch, migrate through the bloodstream, and eventually settle in the small intestine, where they grow into adult worms.

At London Blood Tests, this test uses enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technology to measure specific IgG antibodies that indicate current or recent infection. Serology is especially useful when stool microscopy does not detect parasite eggs, for example, during the early migration phase or in cases of low parasite burden.

Early diagnosis of ascariasis is important, as untreated infections can cause intestinal blockage, malnutrition, respiratory symptoms, or complications involving the liver and pancreas. Our testing service includes the option for a GP consultation, where results are reviewed and appropriate medical treatment can be advised.

Benefits of an Ascariasis Serology Test

• Accurate Detection When Stool Tests Are Negative
  Identifies infection through antibody detection, even before eggs appear in the stool, crucial during early infection stages.

• Non-Invasive and Simple
  Requires only a small blood sample, making it easier and more comfortable than multiple stool collections.

• Early Diagnosis and Treatment
  Enables prompt detection and treatment with anti-parasitic medication, preventing complications such as intestinal blockage or organ involvement.

• Identifies Chronic or Recurrent Infections
  Helps distinguish between new and persistent infections through antibody levels, guiding follow-up and preventive measures.

• Ideal for Travellers or At-Risk Individuals
  Recommended for people returning from regions where parasitic infections are common, or those with unexplained gastrointestinal or allergic symptoms.

• Supports Differential Diagnosis
  Useful in differentiating ascariasis from other parasitic or allergic conditions with similar symptoms.

• Professional GP Review Included
  Each result can be discussed with a London Blood Tests GP, who provides medical interpretation and treatment guidance.

Why Do I Need an Ascariasis Serology Blood Test?

You may need this test if you experience digestive, respiratory, or allergic symptoms without a clear cause, particularly after travel to or residence in areas where parasitic infections are common (Asia, Africa, Latin America, or parts of Eastern Europe).

Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain, bloating, or discomfort
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent cough or wheezing (from larval migration through lungs)
• Fatigue or low energy
• Signs of malnutrition or vitamin deficiency
• Allergic reactions or rashes

Children and individuals with weakened immune systems are especially vulnerable to infection. Early testing helps detect the parasite before it causes intestinal blockage or other complications.

A GP consultation is available after testing to discuss treatment options such as albendazole or mebendazole and to provide preventive guidance on avoiding reinfection.

Step-by-Step: How the Ascariasis Serology Test Works

In-Clinic Testing at London Blood Tests

1. Book Your Appointment
• Schedule your visit online or by phone. No referral is needed.
• You’ll receive a confirmation email with directions, instructions, and an optional short pre-screen questionnaire (to note recent travel, symptoms, or medication use).

2. Pre-Test Preparation
• No fasting is required.
• Stay hydrated and avoid intense physical activity 24 hours before the test.
• Bring a valid photo ID for verification.
• If you wish, you can book a same-day GP consultation before or after your blood draw for professional guidance, though this is optional.

3. Sample Collection
• A trained phlebotomist will draw a small venous blood sample (usually 1–2 serum tubes).
• The procedure takes around 5–10 minutes and is virtually painless.
• After collection, a small dressing is applied to the puncture site.

4. Sample Handling and Laboratory Analysis
• The sample is labelled, logged, and transported under temperature-controlled conditions to a UKAS-accredited laboratory.
• The lab performs an ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) to detect Ascaris lumbricoides IgG antibodies.
• Internal controls and calibration standards are used to ensure diagnostic accuracy.

5. Quality Control and Verification
• Each batch is reviewed by senior biomedical scientists.
• If your result is borderline or technically inconclusive, the lab will automatically re-test before issuing the report.

6. Results Delivery
• Results are typically available within 10 business days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
• You’ll receive a secure digital report showing your antibody values and reference ranges.
• If you prefer, you can later book a GP consultation to review your results and discuss possible next steps.

At-Home Blood Draw (UK-Wide Service)

1. Book Your Appointment
• Schedule your at-home or hotel phlebotomy visit online or by phone.
• Choose a date and time that suits your schedule, same-day or next-day appointments are often available in London and surrounding areas.
2. Professional Phlebotomist Visit
• A trained and certified phlebotomist arrives at your location equipped with sterile, single-use medical supplies.
• The service is discreet, convenient, and follows strict infection-control standards.
3. Sample Collection
• The phlebotomist draws a small venous blood sample (1–2 serum tubes) from your arm, the same as in-clinic.
• The process takes approximately 10 minutes and is comfortable, hygienic, and minimally invasive.
4. Sample Handling and Transport
• Your sample is labelled, sealed, and placed in a temperature-controlled biohazard container.
• It is then couriered directly to our UKAS-accredited laboratory the same day for analysis.
5. Laboratory Testing
• The lab performs the ELISA and immunofluorescence (IFA) assays to detect IgM and IgG antibodies for multiple arboviruses.
• All testing follows ISO 15189 quality standards to ensure precise results.
6. Results Delivery
• Results are typically available within 10 business days after lab receipt.
• You will be notified by email once your digital report is ready in your secure online account.
7. Optional GP Consultation
• If your test is positive or you have ongoing symptoms, you can book an optional GP consultation (via phone or video) for expert interpretation, travel advice, and next-step recommendations.

Your Ascariasis Serology Results – Explained

The Ascariasis Serology Test detects IgG antibodies that your immune system produces in response to Ascaris lumbricoides infection. The results indicate whether you have been exposed to or are currently fighting an infection.

Here’s how to interpret your report:

• Negative Result:
• Ascaris-specific IgG levels are below the diagnostic cut-off.
• Indicates no current or past infection.
• If you have ongoing symptoms or recently returned from an endemic area, your doctor may suggest a stool test or repeat serology after 2–3 weeks.
• Equivocal / Borderline Result:
• Antibody levels are close to the test threshold.
• This result is inconclusive and may occur during early infection or while antibodies are developing.
• A repeat test in 2–3 weeks is recommended for confirmation.
• Positive Result:
• Ascaris-specific IgG antibodies are above the diagnostic threshold, suggesting active or recent infection.
• Your GP or healthcare provider will interpret the antibody level alongside your clinical symptoms and may prescribe an anti-parasitic medication such as albendazole or mebendazole.
• Positive results can remain detectable for months after treatment, as antibodies persist even after the infection clears.

Typical Reference Ranges (may vary slightly by assay):

• < 9 AU/mL, Negative
• 9–11 AU/mL, Borderline (Equivocal)
• > 11 AU/mL, Positive

Alternatively, some labs report as an ELISA Index/Ratio:

• < 0.9, Negative
• 0.9–1.1, Equivocal
• > 1.1, Positive

If a follow-up test shows rising antibody levels, it usually indicates an active infection. If levels decline after treatment, this suggests recovery or successful clearance.

All analyses are performed under UKAS-accredited ISO 15189 standards, ensuring clinical reliability and consistency with UK reference values.