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Viral IgG Antibody to Cytomegalovirus (CMV) – Serum/Plasma

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to the cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common virus that can affect nearly everyone at some point in their lives.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if you’ve been exposed to CMV and whether your body has developed immunity."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16716-3
Short code
CMV IgG sp2 SerPl IA-aCnc
Synonyms
CMV IgG sp2 SerPl IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
CPT
82784
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 detects IgG antibodies specific to CMV. IgG antibodies are typically produced after an initial infection or vaccination and remain in your blood for long periods, indicating past exposure and immunity.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of CMV infection (such as fever, fatigue, or organ-related issues), if you’re immunocompromised (e.g., due to HIV, chemotherapy, or organ transplant), or if you’re pregnant and at risk of passing CMV to your baby.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is collected in a tube and sent to the lab for analysis.

What to Expect After the Test

After the blood draw, you may feel slight discomfort or bruising at the injection site. You can resume normal activities immediately. Results are typically available within a few days.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CMV IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are usually available within 3 to 5 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your doctor will contact you with the results once they’re ready.
Can I have a copy of my test results?
Yes, most labs provide electronic copies of your test results to your healthcare provider. You may also request a printed copy from your doctor’s office or lab upon request.
Does this test differentiate between active and past CMV infection?
No, this test only measures IgG antibodies, which indicate past exposure or immunity but do not directly show whether you currently have an active CMV infection. For active infection, your doctor may order additional tests, such as viral load or PCR testing.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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