Overview:
Serology for brucellosis is a blood test to look for the presence of antibodies against brucella. These are the bacteria that cause the disease brucellosis.
Interpretations:
Normal Results:
A normal (negative) result usually means you have not come in contact with the bacteria that causes brucellosis. However, this test may not detect the disease at an early stage. Your provider may have come back for another test in 10 days to 3 weeks.
Infection with other bacteria, such as yersinia, Francisella, and vibrio, and certain immunizations can cause false-positive results.
What Abnormal Results mean:
An abnormal (positive) result usually means you have come in contact with the bacteria that causes brucellosis.
Brucellosis is an infection that occurs from coming in contact with animals that carry the brucella bacteria.
Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs or symptoms of brucellosis. People working in jobs where they often come in contact with animals or meat, such as slaughterhouse workers, farmers, and veterinarians, are most likely to get this disease.