Cytomegalovirus Antibodies Panel (IgG, IgM) Test

Cytomegalovirus testing is a blood test administered to determine recent or past CMV infection in case of hereditary ailments in the babies as well as morbidity in organ transplant recipients. IgM antibodies are produced when latent CMV will be activated again and are the foremost to be formed. IgG antibodies are produced weeks after the primary CMV infection. The individual who was once detected for positive CMV Antibodies infection is more likely to suffer from the recurrent contamination. Health practitioners advise the test to verify the immunity retort to antiviral therapy. The test is ordered in combination with the other tests.

The panel of antibody test screens on a group of parameters. No special preparation is required for the test. It is an antibody test which is actually a blood test so in general your doctor too will not expect big preparations for the test. If you are under medication, inform your doctor prior to the test. No change in eating and drinking routine is necessary. Take your diet as normal. There is nothing to sweat about, just wear an airy and loose shirt. This will simplify drawing blood from veins in the lab as well as to prevent discomfort after taking out blood.

The test is used to study the immune system of an individual going under chemotherapy or HIV infected person. The test is ordered to confirm primary or acute Cytomegalovirus infection. Tests for bloody diarrhea, pneumonia, encephalitis, and vision disorder must have Cytomegalovirus Antibodies tested. The test is used to determine a recent or past CMV infection in patients who have undergone transplant, organ and blood donors. CMV Screening performed before and during pregnancy is used to detect congenital infections in infants. CMV test is a quantifiable viral test, i.e. it is used to measure the level of infection.

Tie an elastic lash ¾ inch above the elbow pit. Apply antiseptic to the area from where the blood has to be drawn. Pierce the needle into the vein through the skin and suck the blood into the syringe. Transfer blood in a Serum separator tube. Make sure to separate serum in max. 2 hours of blood collection. Take a drop of about 2 mL serum on the slide of glass. Add antigen to test. Observe the reaction under the microscope.