Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgM Blood Test
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Test Code: 160218
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgM Blood Test (Labcorp)
This test measures IgM antibodies to Rubeola, more commonly known as Measles. Rubeola is a virus that is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets from an infected person. The measles virus is highly contagious and those infected can suffer from a variety of complications including diarrhea, ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis. Most people in the United States are vaccinated against measles as children. In most cases, these vaccines provide lifelong immunity but it may sometimes be necessary to receive another vaccination as an adult. Modern vaccination procedures have significantly reduced the prevalence of measles in the US but infections and occasional outbreaks do still occur. After infection, most people will begin to develop symptoms after 10-14 days. Common symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, white spots inside the mouth, and a red spotty rash that begins on the face and spreads down the body.
Because the early symptoms of measles are common to other illnesses, a blood test can help to differentiate measles from other conditions. Identifying measles infection can help to ensure an infected person minimizes the risk of infecting others. IgM antibodies typically begin to develop shortly after a person's initial symptoms appear and reach detectable levels after 3-7 days. After a few weeks, IgM antibodies begin to decrease and IgG antibodies develop.
IgM testing is usually ordered when a person experiences symptoms of measles infection, especially if they have never been vaccinated. This test is not appropriate for determining a person's immune status for Rubeola. For an immunity titer test please see our Rubeola IgG Antibody Test.
Turnaround for this test is typically 2-5 business days.
Where can I find a Measles Antibody 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 to rubeola are typically detectable within 3 weeks of the initial infection and about a week after the first symptoms develop. Some people may be detectable earlier.
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