Varicella-Zoster Antibody, IgG, Serum

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC71672Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID VZPGCPT Code 86787

Varicella-Zoster Antibody, IgG, Serum

Clinical Use

Use

This test is useful for the determination of immune status of individuals to the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It aids in documenting previous infection with VZV in individuals without a previous record of immunization to VZV. The presence of detectable IgG-class antibodies indicates prior exposure to the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) through infection or immunization. Individuals testing positive are considered immune to varicella-zoster. Vaccinated individuals show a positive antibody index, while unvaccinated individuals show a negative index.

Special Instructions

The test can be ordered electronically, and if not, the appropriate forms such as the General Request, Infectious Disease Serology Test Request, or Kidney Transplant Test Request must be completed and sent with the specimen. The test days are Monday through Friday, and results are available the same day or within 1 to 3 days.

Limitations

Immunoglobulin G-class antibodies to varicella-zoster virus may be present in serum specimens from individuals who have received blood products within the past several months but have not been immunized or experienced past infection with the virus. Serum specimens drawn early during the acute phase of infection may be negative for IgG-class antibodies to this virus. This test is for qualitative purposes only; the numeric value of the antibody index is not indicative of the amount of antibody present.

Test Details

FDA Approved