Arbovirus Antibody Panel, IgG and IgM, Serum

Clinical Use

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

Not provided.

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.

Test Details

FDA Approved

New York Approved

Methodology

Immunoassay (Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA))

Biomarkers

4 components

California Virus (LaCrosse) IgG and IgM • Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)Eastern Equine Encephalitis IgG and IgM • Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)St. Louis Encephalitis IgG and IgM • Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)Western Equine Encephalitis IgG and IgM • Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)