Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
This is a serological assay used to detect IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV). It is used to provide evidence of CMV infection at sometime. Primary infection is frequently asymptomatic in the immunocompetent, although it may present as a glandular fever type illness with lymphadenopathy and hepatitis. Infection can be serious in patients with impaired immune response, such as transplant patients who may develop symptoms with both primary infection and reactivation of latent infection. In such patients CMV IgG is used to ascertain status prior to transplant.
Congenital CMV infection may also occur following primary CMV infection or CMV reactivation/reinfection during pregnancy. CMV serology may be used to look for evidence of serconversion during pregnancy, although CMV reactivation/reinfection cannot be diagnosed through serological testing. Please note the IgG assay can be affected by passively acquired antibody where blood products have been administered, or by maternally acquired antibodies in the first months of life.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood.
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1ml
Minimum volume adult:
5ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test :
Possible up to 5 days.
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Detectable CMV IgG is consistent with CMV infection at sometime. Note that passive antibodies (from blood products or transplacental transfer of maternal antibodies) may affect results.
Reference Ranges:
None available
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Referenced Documents:
Standards of Microbiology Investigations UK SMI V28
Other Info:
N/A