Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 IgM Test
|
Test Code: 138529
Specimen Type: Blood
|
|
Description:
Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 IgM Test
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. 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.
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 Multiples Sclerosis, Viral Hepatitis, Epilepsy, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Encephalitis and Lung disease.
This Human Herpesvirus 6 test looks for IgM antibodies which typically develop shortly after infection or after a reactivation. After a few months, these antibodies are typically no longer detectable. A positive test typically means that a person has been infected in the recent past or has recently had an active infection. An HHV-6 IgG Antibody test can be more accurate at determining if a person has ever been exposed to the virus in the past.
Turnaround for this test is typically 2-5 business days.
Where can I find a Human Herpesvirus (HHV) 6 IgM 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:
IgM antibodies are typically detectable shortly after infection or reactivation of a latent infection. Antibodies typically drop below detectable levels after 2-3 months.
Categories: