VZV IgM Antibody by CLIA - Serum

This test detects Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) IgM antibodies in your serum.

• To check whether a person has IgM antibodies to VZV either from past varicella disease or vaccination • To assess whether a person has active immunity against VZV after vaccination or natural infection • To help monitor the progression of VZV infections

Your doctor might recommend this test if you have • symptoms suggestive of chickenpox or shingles, • a history of varicella infection or vaccination and are at risk of reactivation, • complications from previous varicella-zoster virus infection, or • immunosuppression and are at risk of severe varicella disease.

Elevated levels of VZV IgM antibodies often indicate a recent or current VZV infection.

• A healthcare professional will collect 3 mL of your blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. • They will send the sample to a laboratory for testing.

• Tell your doctor if you have received any blood transfusions, immunoglobulin therapy, or other injections within the last three months. • Inform your doctor if you have any specific requirements.

• Varicella-zoster virus DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect viral DNA in skin lesions. • Varicella-zoster virus culture to isolate and identify the virus from skin lesions. • Varicella-zoster virus IgG antibody by CLIA to check immunity to VZV

VZV IgM or Varicella Zoster Virus IgM Antibody test

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is a herpesvirus that causes two distinct illnesses: chickenpox, a contagious childhood infection typically causing blisters and fever; and shingles, a painful rash that can occur in adults after reactivation of VZV from the dormant state in nerve cells.