Hydatid (Echinococcus) IgG antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test measures antibodies against Echinococcus, a tapeworm that can form cysts in the liver, lungs or other organs. Doctors usually order it when a scan shows a cyst that may be a hydatid cyst.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse checks the request, often after a scan
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3A needle draws a tube of blood
- 4The lab tests for Echinococcus IgG antibodies
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The report usually says positive, negative or borderline; a positive result often needs a confirmatory test, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result supports a diagnosis of hydatid disease when a scan shows a typical cyst. A negative result does not rule it out, especially for lung cysts or cysts that have not leaked.
Who usually has this test
People with a liver or lung cyst seen on ultrasound or CT, especially with contact with dogs or sheep.
Risks and aftercare
Only a minor bruise is likely; your doctor will discuss the result with your scan findings.
Names and options
Also called: hydatid serology, Echinococcus IgG, hydatid cyst test
Listed by the hospital as
- ECHINOCOCCUS, IGG (HYDATID)
Questions about this test
How do people get hydatid cysts?
By swallowing tapeworm eggs passed in the stool of infected dogs, often through contaminated food, water or hands. Cysts grow slowly over years.
Can hydatid antibody be used after surgery?
Doctors sometimes repeat it after treatment, as levels may fall slowly. Scans are the main way to check for return.
Is a scan needed as well as the blood test?
Yes. Ultrasound or CT is the main way to find and describe the cyst. The blood test supports the diagnosis.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.