Rubella IgM Titer Blood Test
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Test Code: 096537
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Rubella IgM Titer Blood Test (Labcorp)
This test measures IgM antibodies to Rubella. Rubella, also known as German Measles, is an infectious viral disease. It is spread through respiratory secretions such as saliva and mucus when the infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces. A person infected with Rubella can be contagious for 1-2 weeks before they begin to develop symptoms until 1-2 weeks after their symptoms have subsided. The most distinctive symptom is a fine pink rash which begins to develop a few weeks after the initial infection on the face and then spreads to other parts of the body. Other common symptoms include a mild fever, headache, aching joints, swollen lymph nodes, and stuffy or runny nose. In most people, Rubella does not cause serious illness and they recover on their own without the need for medical treatment. However, in pregnant women, contracting Rubella can increase the risk of complications with the pregnancy, birth defects, and may even be fatal to the infant. In the United States, it is common for most people to be vaccinated against rubella when they are young. Thanks to these vaccinations, cases of rubella are rare in the United States but periodic cases or limited outbreaks do still occur.
IgM antibodies begin to develop after infection and will be detectable shortly after a person first begins to develop symptoms. Testing for IgM antibodies can help to identify a rubella infection and differentiate it from other conditions with similar symptoms. Testing is especially important for pregnant women who develop symptoms or are exposed to someone who has been diagnosed with rubella. Early detection can help to avoid possible complications with the pregnancy.
This test is not appropriate for determining if someone is immune to rubella. A Rubella IgG Antibody test looks for antibodies that typically develop in response to a vaccine or after an infected person has recovered. The presence of IgG antibodies is usually indicative of immunity from future infection. A Rubella IgG test is available by itself or as part of the MMR titer test.
Turnaround for this test is typically 1-3 business days.
Where can I find a Rubella IgM Titer 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 begin to develop within the first few weeks of exposure. The best time to test is within 5 days of the onset of symptoms.
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