Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Antibody, IgM
CPT Code(s):
86645
Turnaround Time:
24 - 48 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Lithium Heparin or Lavendar Top Tube (EDTA)
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Citrate, Fluoride,Sodium Heparin; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
7 days
Refrigerated:
30 days
Frozen:
90 days
Clinical Significance
The Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Ab, IgM test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of infectious diseases and immunology. It is a blood test that detects the presence of IgM antibodies against the cytomegalovirus, a common viral infection.
The clinical significance and diagnostic use of the CMV Ab, IgM test include:
1. Recent Infection Detection: The CMV Ab, IgM test is primarily used to determine recent or acute infection with cytomegalovirus. IgM antibodies are produced early in the course of an active CMV infection and are typically present during the acute phase. A positive IgM result suggests recent exposure to CMV, indicating an active infection that is likely within the past few weeks. This information is crucial for diagnosing acute CMV infection in patients and initiating appropriate management and treatment strategies.
2. Neonatal Screening: The CMV Ab, IgM test is valuable in neonatal screening, particularly for infants born to mothers with primary CMV infection during pregnancy. CMV infection in newborns can lead to significant health complications, including hearing loss and developmental disabilities. Detecting IgM antibodies in neonatal blood samples helps identify infants with congenital CMV infection, enabling early intervention and monitoring to mitigate potential long-term sequelae.
3. Immune Status Assessment: The CMV Ab, IgM test aids in assessing a patient's immune status in relation to CMV. In immunocompetent individuals, the presence of IgM antibodies suggests an active or recent CMV infection. However, it is important to note that IgM antibodies can persist for an extended period after the acute infection, making it necessary to interpret the test results in the context of the patient's clinical presentation and other diagnostic findings.
4. Immunocompromised Patient Monitoring: The CMV Ab, IgM test is used in monitoring immunocompromised patients, such as transplant recipients or individuals with HIV/AIDS. In these individuals, a positive IgM result may indicate CMV reactivation or a new CMV infection. Regular monitoring of CMV IgM status helps guide management decisions, such as initiation or adjustment of antiviral therapy to prevent CMV-related complications.
5. Research and Epidemiological Studies: The CMV Ab, IgM test is also utilized in research and epidemiological studies to investigate the prevalence and incidence of CMV infections in specific populations or geographic regions. It provides valuable data for understanding the dynamics of CMV transmission, risk factors, and the impact of the virus on public health.
In summary, the CMV Ab, IgM test has specific clinical significance in detecting recent CMV infection, facilitating neonatal screening, assessing immune status, monitoring immunocompromised patients, and supporting research and epidemiological studies. By detecting IgM antibodies against CMV in the blood, this test provides valuable information for clinical decision-making, enabling healthcare providers to diagnose acute CMV infection, identify high-risk individuals, guide management strategies, and improve patient care outcomes related to cytomegalovirus infection.