Bordetella pertussis Toxin (PT) Antibody (IgG) Test
This test measures the amount of IgG antibody directed against Bordetella pertussis toxin in a blood sample. Bordetella pertussis is the bacterium associated with whooping cough.
About this test
The immunoassay measures IgG antibody levels against Bordetella pertussis toxin (PT) in serum. Elevated antibody levels are highly suggestive of recent Bordetella pertussis infection or vaccination, rather than indicating an active or acute infection.
The sample is 0.5 mL of serum, analyzed using an immunoassay method. Because a raised result reflects recent exposure through either infection or vaccination, a clinician reads it together with symptoms, vaccination history, and timing rather than as a stand-alone answer.
Test details
| Quest code | 37295 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Immunoassay |
| Sample type | 0.5 mL serum |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports one value: IgG antibody level against Bordetella pertussis toxin. Quest also lists this test under the alias Whooping Cough, which refers to the same measurement.
How it's often used alongside other tests
Because an elevated result is described as suggestive of recent infection or vaccination rather than distinguishing between the two, a clinician typically weighs the antibody level together with symptom timing, vaccination records, and other clinical information rather than in isolation.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
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 measures the amount of IgG antibody directed against Bordetella pertussis toxin in a serum sample, using an immunoassay method.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 0.5 mL serum sample collected through 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.
Does a positive result mean I have an active infection?
Not necessarily. Elevated antibody levels are highly suggestive of recent Bordetella pertussis infection or vaccination, rather than indicating an active or acute infection.
Is this test known by another name?
Yes. Quest also lists it under the alias Whooping Cough, which refers to the same test.
How much does the Bordetella pertussis IgG, Immunoblot test cost?
The cash price at Celio Health is $229. That covers the physician's order and sample collection at a Quest patient service center — no insurance is needed and there's no separate doctor's visit to pay for.