Rickettsial antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies to rickettsial bacteria, which cause infections such as scrub typhus and spotted fever. Doctors order it for fever with rash, headache or a dark scab after possible mite or tick bites.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You may be asked about fever, rash, travel and insect bites
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3Blood is collected into a tube
- 4A repeat sample may be asked for a week or two later to compare
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Antibodies may take several days to appear, so a negative early result does not rule out infection; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can point to a rickettsial infection such as scrub typhus or spotted fever, especially if levels rise between two samples. A negative result early in the illness can be seen because antibodies take time to appear.
Who usually has this test
People with fever, headache, body aches or rash, sometimes with a dark scab called an eschar, after time in rural, farm or forest areas.
Risks and aftercare
Nothing special is needed afterwards, but seek care promptly if your fever gets worse.
Names and options
Also called: scrub typhus antibody, rickettsia test
Listed by the hospital as
- RICKETSIAL ANTIBODY, SERUM
Questions about this test
Is scrub typhus common in Karnataka?
Scrub typhus is seen in many parts of India, including Karnataka, especially during and after the monsoon. It is spread by mite bites in grassy or bushy areas.
What is an eschar?
An eschar is a small black scab, often not sore or itchy, at the site of the mite bite. It can be hidden in skin folds, so doctors often look carefully when scrub typhus is suspected.
Will treatment be started before the result?
Often yes. Because rickettsial infections can become serious, doctors may start antibiotics based on symptoms without waiting for the antibody result.
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 →
Reception
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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.