Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), IgM
Also known as: HHV-6 IgM Antibody
Use
The detection of anti-HHV-6 IgM or a fourfold rise in anti-HHV-6 IgG supports a clinical diagnosis of HHV-6 infection. Human IgM antibodies to HHV-6 antigens are detected by indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) assay. Diluted serum is incubated on a slide containing infected T-lymphoblasts. If specific HHV-6 antibodies are present, they remain bound, are then labeled by an antibody conjugate and finally detected by fluorescence microscopy.
Special Instructions
This assay currently is not available for use in New York state. Please note that nucleic acid amplification (PCR) is the recommended testing method for diagnosis of active HHV-6 infection.
Limitations
This test was developed and its performance characteristics were determined by Labcorp. It has not been cleared or approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The test is limited by its inability to differentiate between a recent primary infection, reactivation, or reinfection solely based on IgM detection.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunofluorescence)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 25417-7
- 25417-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Collection Instructions
If tube other than a gel-barrier tube is used, transfer separated serum to a plastic transport tube. Do not freeze gel-barrier tube (pour off serum first).
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |