Cytomegalovirus IgG and IgM Antibodies Blood Test
Cytomegalovirus IgG and IgM Antibodies Blood Test
Cytomegalovirus IgG and IgM Antibodies Blood Test
Cytomegalovirus IgG and IgM Antibodies Blood Test
Cytomegalovirus IgG and IgM Antibodies Blood Test, from our experts to you.
Dr Sam Rodgers MBBS, MRCGP

Chief Medical Officer

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What is
cytomegalovirus?

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common human virus thought to affect over 50% of the population. It is common in childhood, and most people are unaware they have it. CMV is mainly spread through close contact with someone who already has the virus and is usually passed on through body fluids, including saliva, blood, and urine. Once you are infected, the virus will remain with you for the rest of your life but will usually be inactive. However, it can recur, especially in people with a weakened immune system. Some people may experience flu-like symptoms, but usually, the virus presents with no symptoms.

Are pregnant women
at risk of CMV?

A pregnant woman with a current infection can pass CMV to her unborn baby. Most infected newborns will have no symptoms at birth. In some cases, symptoms will appear over the next several years. These include developmental and vision or hearing problems.

What can I learn
from this test?

Our test measures levels of IgG and IgM-antibodies to rule out or confirm a current or past infection with cytomegalovirus.

What's Included?

Immunity
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Cytomegalovirus IgG Cytomegalovirus, or CMV is a virus of the herpes family. It is thought that it is transmitted through bodily fluids, and the symptoms include fever, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes. The virus can cause birth defects and pregnancy complications in pregnant women. The virus can also be very dangerous for immunocompromised individuals. Many organs can become inflamed and damaged, including the liver, the retina, and the colon (large intestine). A few weeks after being initially infected with CMV, the immune system produces an antibody called IgG.
Cytomegalovirus IgM Immunoglobulins or antibodies, play an important role in the immune system and help fight against harmful bacteria and viruses in the body. IgM antibodies are involved in the very early stages of an immune response and first to be made by the body when fighting a new infection, providing short-term protection.