Bartonella henselae 26 kDa - IgM

What Does a Positive or Elevated IgM Result Mean?

A positive or elevated IgM result for Bartonella henselae 26 kDa suggests:

• A recent infection, likely occurring within the past few weeks

• An active immune response to the bacterium

• You may currently be experiencing early symptoms of Bartonella infection

This result supports the likelihood of acute Bartonella infection, especially when consistent symptoms are present and recent exposure to cats or potential vectors has occurred.

Common Symptoms of Bartonella henselae Infection

Symptoms can vary but may include:

• Swollen lymph nodes (especially near the site of a scratch or bite)

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Body aches or joint pain

• Nausea or malaise

• In some cases: blurred vision, neurological symptoms, or skin lesions (especially in immunocompromised individuals)

Symptoms typically begin within a few days to two weeks after exposure.

Next Steps

• Speak with your healthcare provider to interpret this result in the context of your health history, symptoms, and any recent exposure to cats, fleas, or ticks.

• Follow-up testing may be recommended, including IgG levels, Bartonella PCR, or blood culture if chronic or systemic infection is suspected.

• If infection is confirmed, antibiotic treatment—commonly azithromycin or doxycycline—is often effective.

Summary

The Bartonella henselae 26 kDa – IgM test helps detect a recent or active immune response to a bacterium that can cause Cat Scratch Disease and other systemic illnesses. A medium or positive result suggests possible recent infection and should be evaluated alongside symptoms and other lab results. Timely medical evaluation is important for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What is Bartonella henselae 26 kDa – IgM?

Bartonella henselae is a bacterial species best known for causing Cat Scratch Disease (CSD) and can also lead to more serious or chronic infections in some individuals. It is most commonly transmitted through scratches or bites from cats, but it can also be spread through fleas or ticks.

The 26 kDa – IgM test detects IgM antibodies directed against a 26-kilodalton protein produced by Bartonella henselae. IgM is the first type of antibody the body produces in response to infection, usually appearing within 1–2 weeks after initial exposure. Because of this, a positive result may signal a recent or active infection.

What Does a Medium Result Mean?

A medium IgM result indicates a moderate level of early antibodies, which may reflect:

• An early-stage infection, where the immune response is still developing

• A waning infection, with IgM levels beginning to decline

• A borderline or nonspecific reaction, which should be interpreted carefully

Medium results are not diagnostic by themselves and should be considered alongside clinical symptoms, IgG antibody levels, and other relevant testing such as PCR (which detects bacterial DNA).