West Nile Virus Antibodies, IgG and IgM by ELISA, Serum
Also known as: WNILE SER
Use
The test is used to detect the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies in individuals with a clinical suspicion of West Nile Virus infection. It serves as a semi-quantitative assay to aid in diagnosing West Nile Virus by identifying antibodies that suggest current or past infection. Seroconversion between acute and convalescent sera is considered strong evidence of current or recent infection. The test's results should be used in conjunction with clinical history as members of the Flaviviridae family show cross-reactivity with West Nile Virus.
Special Instructions
Parallel testing is preferred, and convalescent specimens must be received within 30 days from receipt of the acute specimens. Mark specimens plainly as 'acute' or 'convalescent.'
Limitations
The test should not be used solely for quantitative purposes nor should the results be used without correlation to clinical data. Other members of the Flaviviridae family such as St. Louis encephalitis virus exhibit cross-reactivity with West Nile Virus, hence specific serologic testing for these species should be considered. A false positive rate of 2-3% has been demonstrated with the Focus Diagnostics ELISA assay.
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 38166-5
- 38997-3
- 38997-3
- 38166-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.15 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection and transfer to the transport tube.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated transport.
Causes for Rejection
Bacterially contaminated, heat-inactivated, hemolyzed, icteric, lipemic, or turbid specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year (avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles) |
