Also Known As
Cytomegalovirus Antibody
The Purpose of a Cytomegalovirus Blood Test
A version of the herpes virus, cytomegalovirus usually isn’t an issue for most people, who experience a brief illness at most. But it’s much more serious for people who are pregnant (the virus can impair the fetus’ vision and hearing, among other issues) and anyone with a compromised immune system (there’s a heightened risk of health complications). A CMV IgM test can be taken on its own, or alongside other infectious disease tests, to diagnose cytomegalovirus or rule out other viruses.
What Does the CMV Test Measure?
When the cytomegalovirus enters your system, your body triggers an immune response that releases IgG and IgM antibodies to fight the virus. This CMV lab test looks for the presence of IgM antibodies in your blood sample.
Who Should Take a Cytomegalovirus Test?
You will want to get tested if you have the following symptoms, especially if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system due to a condition like cancer:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Sore throat or swollen lymph nodes
- Achiness in the head or muscles
- Lack of strength
CMV IgM Test Preparation
You don’t need to follow any special instructions before giving your sample for the cytomegalovirus blood test.
CMV Test Results
If IgM antibodies are present in your blood sample, you will have a positive test result. Higher levels can indicate a current infection, so you may need to be tested again after a short period of time to see if your treatment is effective and has lowered your levels. If your original test results don’t show high levels of CMV IgM, it may mean you had a past infection, and the virus will likely remain dormant in your system for the rest of your life. A negative result means you don’t have cytomegalovirus. If you need medical treatment based on your CMV lab test results, you can speak with a board-certified doctor from Personalabs during a telehealth appointment.
Where Can I Get a Test for CMV Near Me?
Enjoy a comprehensive selection of 400+ health tests when you shop online at Personalabs for everything from allergies to vitamin deficiencies. We also partner with more than 4,000 Quest Diagnostics and Labcorp locations across the country for the ultimate convenience when scheduling your testing appointment. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Make sure you don’t need a doctor’s approval to get a test. (This depends on the state where you live.) Then buy your test and download the lab order that comes with it.
Step 2: Search with the lab locator tool on our website to find a facility close to you and make your test appointment.
Step 3: Go to your appointment. (Bring the test order so you can complete your blood draw.)
Step 4: Check your secure Personalabs account for your test results. They should arrive within 2 to 10 business days, but you can contact us if you need the results by a certain date, and we will work with your lab.
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