Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA, Qualitative Real-Time PCR Test
This test uses real-time PCR to look for DNA from the organism associated with human granulocytic ehrlichiosis, also known as Anaplasma phagocytophilum or Ehrlichia phagocytophilia, in a whole blood sample.
About this test
The test measures the presence of DNA from the organism associated with human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE), using a whole blood sample collected for the assay. It does not recognize genetic material from the related organism Ehrlichia chaffeensis, so it is specific to this organism rather than a general tickborne-illness panel.
Quest lists this organism under the names HGA and Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis, alongside human granulocytic ehrlichiosis, reflecting that the condition has been referred to by more than one name. The single analyte reported is the qualitative real-time PCR result for Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA: the assay looks for the organism's genetic material directly in the blood sample, rather than for the antibodies a person's immune system produces in response to infection.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The result is a single qualitative value describing whether Anaplasma phagocytophilum DNA was detected in the 0.7 mL whole blood sample submitted for testing, using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methodology.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It detects DNA from the organism associated with human granulocytic ehrlichiosis, using real-time PCR on a whole blood sample. It does not detect the related organism Ehrlichia chaffeensis.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 0.7 mL whole blood sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Is this the same as the antibody test for Anaplasma?
No. This is a PCR test that looks for the organism's DNA directly in blood, separate from an antibody test that measures the immune response to the organism.