Description
The CMV Antibodies Blood Test detects and measures antibodies against cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common virus related to the viruses that cause chickenpox and mononucleosis (mono). CMV is widespread; approximately 50–80% of Americans have been exposed by age 40. After infection, CMV can remain dormant in the body and may reactivate later.
Purpose:
- Screen for current or past CMV infection.
- Identify recent or reactivated infection in at-risk individuals, including pregnant women and immunocompromised patients.
- Assess immunity to CMV.
How the Antibodies Work:
- IgM antibodies: Appear shortly after initial CMV exposure. Elevated IgM indicates a recent infection or reactivation. IgM typically declines within a few months.
- IgG antibodies: Develop several weeks after infection and usually remain detectable for life, providing immunity and indicating past exposure.
Transmission:
CMV spreads through close contact with body fluids such as saliva, urine, blood, or sexual fluids. It is generally asymptomatic in healthy adults but can cause severe disease in infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.
Symptoms of CMV Infection:
- Fatigue, weakness
- Fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes
- Headache, muscle aches
- Jaundice, low platelet count
- Enlarged liver or spleen
- Neurological or developmental issues in infants (e.g., small head, hearing/vision problems, delayed mental development)
- Pneumonia, seizures
When to Test:
- Suspected recent infection (e.g., in pregnant women or immunocompromised patients)
- Monitoring reactivation in people with dormant CMV
- Evaluation of unexplained symptoms consistent with CMV
Preparation:
- Fasting not required
- Avoid Biotin supplements before testing
