Cytomegalovirus Antibodies, IgG and IgM
Also known as: CMV PAN
Use
This test is used to aid in the diagnosis by helping discriminate between current and past cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, particularly in immunocompetent individuals. While not suitable for blood donor screening or screening HCT/P products, it provides crucial serological evidence to delineate previous infection from recent or active infection when interpreting an individual’s immune profile against CMV. A significant change in antibody titers on appropriately timed specimens could indicate ongoing infection.
Special Instructions
CMV serology may not be reliable in immunocompromised patients, potentially yielding misleading results for diagnosing acute or reactivated CMV disease. Alternative strategies such as viral culture and antigen demonstration in specific cells or tissue should be considered. Parallel testing is preferred, and convalescent specimens should ideally be tested within 30 days of acute specimen receipt. It is important to label specimens as 'acute' or 'convalescent' to ensure accurate interpretation.
Limitations
The test should not be used for blood donor screening or related re-entry protocols, nor for screening human cells, tissues, and cellular-and tissue-based products. In immunocompromised patients, CMV antibody titers (IgG or IgM) may not reliably indicate disease status. CMV serology cannot adequately distinguish active infection, which necessitates molecular diagnostics like PCR in certain cases. Persistently low levels of IgM antibodies may remain for over a year, potentially complicating recent infection diagnosis.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (CLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5124-3
- 7853-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Allow the specimen to clot completely at room temperature. Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Label specimens plainly as 'acute' or 'convalescent.'
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated storage is required after separation from cells.
Causes for Rejection
Plasma or urine. Contaminated, hemolyzed, icteric, or heat-inactivated specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles) |