HHV 6 Antibody Test (IgG & IgM)
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Test Code: 138529, 161075
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Human Herpes Virus (HHV) 6 IgM & IgG
What is Human Herpesvirus 6?
This test looks for antibodies to Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) in the blood. HHV-6 is a member of the Herpes family of viruses. Information on how HHV-6 is spread is limited, but research has found that the majority of people are infected when they are very young.
How do you get Human Herpesvirus 6?
The most common form of transmission is through saliva, but it can be transmitted through sexual contact as well. Once a person is infected, the virus remains in their system for the rest of their life. The virus will typically remain latent but can reactivate later in life and may be related to a variety of health issues, especially in people whose immune systems are compromised.
What are the symptoms of Human Herpesvirus 6?
HHV-6 does not usually cause any symptoms, but initial infection in children may cause fever, diarrhea or rash. Adults with a reactivated infection may experience fever or illness similar to mononucleosis (mono). HHV-6 has been linked to a number of conditions, including Multiple Sclerosis, Viral Hepatitis, Epilepsy, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Encephalitis, and Lung disease.
This Human Herpes Virus 6 test looks for both IgM and IgG antibodies. IgM antibodies typically develop shortly after infection or after a reactivation. After a few months, these antibodies are typically no longer detectable. IgG typically develops a few weeks after infection and can persist for the rest of a person's life. A positive IgG test typically means that a person has been infected in the past but does not necessarily indicate an active infection. A positive IgM test typically means that a person has been infected in the recent past or has recently had an active infection.
Turnaround for this test is typically 2-5 business days.
Where can I find a Human Herpes Virus (HHV) 6 IgM & IgG Test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
