Ordering the Bartonellosis Panel | Bartonella Panel 4I
The Bartonellosis Panel | Bartonella Panel 4I helps detect Bartonella infections, which can be spread by animal bites, scratches, ticks, or fleas. This test is especially useful for people with unexplained symptoms like fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or skin lesions, and can help identify infections that may not show up on standard tests. Interestingly, Bartonella can sometimes cause blood vessel inflammation or even heart infections, which are often missed without targeted testing.
Ordering this panel provides several specific benefits:
- Detects both recent and long-standing Bartonella infections using IgM and IgG markers.
- Identifies Bartonella DNA directly with PCR, which can catch infections missed by antibody tests.
- Uses FISH technology to visualize Bartonella bacteria in blood samples for added confirmation.
- Helps guide treatment decisions by showing if the infection is active or past.
- Supports diagnosis in people with complex or persistent symptoms that have not responded to standard care.
Who Should Consider Bartonella and Zoonotic Disease Testing
People who have had close contact with cats, dogs, or wild animals and now experience ongoing fever, joint pain, or unexplained rashes may benefit from this test. For example, someone who volunteers at an animal shelter and develops persistent fatigue and swollen lymph nodes after a cat scratch could use this panel to check for Bartonella infection.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- After a tick bite followed by neurological symptoms like headaches or vision changes.
- When there is a history of flea exposure and new skin lesions appear.
- For those with chronic joint or muscle pain that has not improved with standard treatments.
- In cases of unexplained liver or spleen enlargement after animal contact.
- When someone with a weakened immune system develops night sweats and persistent fever after a pet scratch, as these symptoms can sometimes be linked to Bartonella.
Testing can help pinpoint the cause of symptoms, confirm if Bartonella is present, and support targeted treatment. Delaying this test may allow the infection to persist, which can make symptoms harder to manage and increase the risk of complications.
Preparing for Bartonella Infection Blood Testing
Fasting is not required before this blood test, so you can eat and drink as usual. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Bartonellosis Panel | Bartonella Panel 4I
| Test Name | Reference Range | What the Test Measures | Low and High Levels of the Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bartonella Immunoblot, IgM | Negative: <1.0 Positive: ≥1.0 |
This test checks for IgM antibodies, which show a recent or current Bartonella infection. It helps identify early immune response to the bacteria. |
High levels mean your body is currently fighting a Bartonella infection.
Low levels mean there is no recent or active infection detected. |
| Bartonella Immunoblot, IgG | Negative: <1.0 Positive: ≥1.0 |
This test looks for IgG antibodies, which show past or ongoing Bartonella infection. It helps determine if you have been exposed to Bartonella over time. |
High levels mean you have had a Bartonella infection in the past or it may still be present.
Low levels mean there is no evidence of past exposure or infection. |
| Bartonella Henselae PCR | Negative: Not detected Positive: Detected |
This test detects Bartonella henselae DNA in your blood, confirming the presence of the bacteria. It is useful for finding active infections, even if antibodies are not present. |
High (Detected) means Bartonella DNA is present, showing an active infection.
Low (Not detected) means no Bartonella DNA was found in your blood. |
| Bartonella FISH | Negative: No bacteria seen Positive: Bacteria seen |
This test uses a special stain to look for Bartonella bacteria in blood cells. It helps confirm infection when other tests are unclear. |
High (Bacteria seen) means Bartonella bacteria are present in your blood.
Low (No bacteria seen) means no Bartonella bacteria were found in your sample. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and standards.
Bartonellosis Panel | Bartonella Panel 4I FAQ
Is there Bartonellosis Panel | Bartonella Panel 4I testing near me?
This is a test kit that can be collected at a local draw site—check the draw location link at the top of the page. For people dealing with ongoing symptoms like fatigue or swollen lymph nodes, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and start finding answers.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, you can also use our one-on-one test results review service with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price for this test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but local draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you identify a hidden infection, which may speed up your recovery and help you feel better sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 3-6 months if symptoms continue or after treatment to check for ongoing infection. Regular testing helps track changes and ensures that any lingering infection is detected and managed.
How accurate is the test?
This panel uses immunoblot, PCR, and FISH methods for Bartonella detection, with specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 92%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
None.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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