Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG Blood Test
|
Test Code: 006494
Specimen Type: Blood
|
|
Description:
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Blood Test IgG (Labcorp)
The Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG test is used to detect if a person has ever been exposed to CMV. IgG antibodies typically begin to develop around 3 weeks after initial exposure and remain in a person's body for the rest of their life. After the initial infection, the virus will normally become inactive and IgG antibodies will provide immunity to primary infection.
CMV belongs to the Herpes virus family which also includes the viruses which cause chicken pox and mononucleosis. CMV is spread through close contact with blood or bodily fluids including through sexual contact. Infection with CMV is very common and most people in the United States will have been exposed by the time they turn 40. Most healthy adults experience no health issues from CMV. Some may experience mild flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, and muscle aches which pass after a couple weeks. However, in very young children or people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV, CMV can cause serious health complications.
A CMV IgG test can be ordered by anyone who wishes to determine if they have been exposed to CMV in the past. CMV testing is typically ordered by pregnant women due to the risk of passing the virus to their infants. It may also be ordered when a person has been diagnosed with HIV or other conditions which affect the immune system.
A Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG test can help determine if a person has even been exposed to the virus but it cannot determine how long the virus has been in their systems. A Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgM test can detect antibodies which indicate a recent exposure or active infection.
The Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG test typically sees results in 1-2 business days.
Where can I find a Cytomegalovirus IgG test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Detection Period:
IgG antibodies are usually detectable at 3-12 weeks after exposure although they may de detectable sooner in some people. In most cases they will remain detectable for the rest of a person's life.
In cases where CMV is transmitted through blood transfusion or organ transplants, the incubation period may be somewhat longer, approximately 1-4 months.
Categories:
