Arbovirus Antibody Panel, IgG and IgM, Serum
Use
The Arbovirus Antibody Panel, IgG and IgM, Serum test is crucial for aiding the diagnosis of arboviral encephalitis due to California (LaCrosse), St. Louis, Eastern equine, or Western equine encephalitis viruses. These arboviral infections, transmitted by mosquitoes, can cause significant neurological symptoms and complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as children or individuals from endemic areas. Early detection of IgM antibodies can indicate acute infection, while IgG antibodies provide information on exposure history and potential immunity to these viruses. This test is particularly useful in understanding potential outbreaks and guiding patient management in affected areas.
Special Instructions
The test requires a serum specimen collected in a Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, with a preferred container of Serum gel or an acceptable Red top tube. After collection, the specimen should be centrifuged and the serum aliquoted into a plastic vial for submission. If not ordering electronically, complete and send the Infectious Disease Serology Test Request form with the specimen. Special instructions and additional testing algorithms are available, including the Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel Algorithm and Mosquito-borne Disease Laboratory Testing.
Limitations
The Arbovirus Antibody Panel may not detect IgG antibodies in specimens collected within the first two weeks after infection onset, suggesting that an arboviral infection may require a second specimen collection between 10 to 21 days later. Cross-reactivity with dengue fever virus can occur in St. Louis encephalitis antigens, which may complicate specific viral identification without additional context such as travel history and medical data. The test may show cross-reactivity between Eastern and Western equine encephalitis viruses, with antibody responses typically being higher for the infecting virus.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 49093-8
- 10896-9
- 10898-5
- 6957-5
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.15 mL
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |