Cytomegalovirus Antibody, Serum (Qualitative Immunoassay)
This test checks for antibodies to the cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common virus that can affect people of all ages. Antibodies indicate your immune system has recognized and fought off the virus in the past.
["A positive result suggests past infection; a negative result means no detectable antibodies at this time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 15377-5
- Short code
- CMV Ab Ser Ql LA
- Synonyms
- CMV Ab Ser Ql LA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- la
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test detects specific proteins (antibodies) your immune system produces in response to CMV. If you’ve been exposed to CMV, these antibodies may be present in your blood. This test is qualitative, meaning it only tells you whether antibodies are present or not, not how much.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor CMV infection, especially in people with weakened immune systems (e.g., those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or having organ transplants). It can also help evaluate symptoms like fatigue, fever, or organ damage that might be linked to past CMV exposure.
What to Expect
You’ll typically provide a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. The test involves sending your serum (liquid part of blood) to a lab for analysis using an immunoassay method. Results are usually available within a few days.
What the Results Mean
A **positive** result means your body has produced antibodies to CMV, indicating past infection. A **negative** result means no detectable antibodies were found at this time. This doesn’t confirm current infection—it only shows whether you’ve been exposed before.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A positive CMV antibody test is important for people at higher risk of complications from CMV, such as those with immune deficiencies. It helps guide treatment decisions, such as avoiding certain contacts or medications that could weaken immunity. A negative result doesn’t rule out past infection if you’ve had symptoms or risk factors (e.g., organ transplants).
Short name
CMV Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can a negative result mean I had CMV?
Does this test replace other CMV tests?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy