CMV blood test
.What Is a CMV Blood Test?
A CMV (cytomegalovirus) blood test is a laboratory test used to diagnose whether a person is infected with the cytomegalovirus virus. This virus is part of the herpes family of viruses, and it can cause serious infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. The CMV blood test is commonly used to detect the presence of the virus in individuals with weakened immune systems, or those with HIV/AIDS.
Preparation for the CMV Blood Test
No special preparation is needed for a CMV test, though it is important to make sure that the lab knows if you have an compromised immune system or if you are taking any medications that may affect the results of the test.
Procedure for the CMV Blood Test
The CMV blood test is simple and fast. A small sample of blood will be taken from a vein in your arm or your hand. The sample will then be processed in the laboratory. Results of the test will usually come back within 1-2 days.
Types of CMV Infection Tests
There are two different types of CMV tests, each of which looks for a different type of virus:
- CMV IgG: This test looks for antibodies to the virus in the blood and tells if a person has been previously infected with the virus or not.
- CMV IgM: This test looks for a more recent infection with the virus, and it can be used to diagnose an acute infection.
What Do the Results of a CMV Test Mean?
The results of a CMV test will tell the doctor if the virus is present in the body or not. If the CMV IgG test is positive, it means that the person has been previously exposed to the virus and that they may have latent or chronic infection. If the CMV IgM test is positive, it means that a recent infection has occurred. In most cases, a positive CMV test do not signify that a person is experiencing any health complications due to the infection. However, it is important to understand that in individuals with weakened immune systems, CMV infections can be more serious and should be monitored and treated if necessary.
Risks of CMV Blood Tests
The CMV blood test has very few risks associated with it. The most common risk is minor discomfort from the needle prick. Other than that, there are no risks associated with the test.
Why Do People Get a CMV Blood Test?
The CMV test is usually ordered for individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. In individuals with these conditions, CMV infections can cause serious illnesses and should be closely monitored. The test can also be used to evaluate whether a newborn baby has been infected with the virus while in the uterus.
When Is a CMV Blood Test Ordered?
The CMV test is usually ordered when a doctor suspects that a person has been exposed to the virus or when the individual is showing symptoms of CMV infection, such as fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes. The test is also sometimes ordered as part of a routine screening for individuals with weakened immune systems.