Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Antibody, IgG and IgM (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures your body’s immune response to the cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common virus that can affect nearly everyone at some point. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to CMV and whether your immune system is responding.
["CMV exposure and immune reaction can be tracked with this simple blood test."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108749-3
- Short code
- CMV Ag Msmt SerPl
- Synonyms
- CMV Ag Msmt SerPl
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Does This Test Measure?
The test checks for two types of antibodies—IgG and IgM—produced by your immune system in response to CMV infection. IgG antibodies typically appear after an initial infection and can last for years, while IgM antibodies appear earlier and usually fade once the infection has cleared.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of CMV infection (such as fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes), if you’re at high risk for infection (like those with weakened immune systems), or if you’re planning a pregnancy and want to assess potential exposure.
Who Might Need This Test?
People with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to HIV/AIDS, chemotherapy, or organ transplants), pregnant individuals, newborns, or those with symptoms like persistent fever, fatigue, or organ-related issues may need this test.
What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result indicates exposure to CMV. IgG antibodies suggest past or ongoing infection, while IgM antibodies suggest an active infection at the time of testing. Combined results help doctors understand your risk and guide treatment or monitoring.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: CMV is a common virus that can cause serious health issues, especially in people with weakened immune systems. This test helps identify exposure, assess risk, and guide medical decisions for prevention or treatment.
Short name
CMV Antibody Panel
Frequently asked questions
How is this test performed?
What are the typical reference ranges?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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