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Cva2abtitrcsf

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

This test detects antibodies against Coxsackievirus A2 in cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose viral infections of the brain and spinal cord.

Quick summary

{"Detects antibodies to Coxsackievirus A2 in brain fluid","Helps diagnose viral meningitis or encephalitis","Sample is collected via lumbar puncture (spinal tap)","Results help guide appropriate treatment","Often ordered with other viral tests for complete diagnosis"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16682-7
Short code
COXA2 CSF Titer
Synonyms
CV A2 Ab Titr CSF
Category
cardiac
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile plastic or glass tube for CSF collection (typically 12 x 75 mm polystyrene or polypropylene tube); avoid glass tubes that may adsorb proteins
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA/ELISA) or Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) for detection of Coxsackievirus A2-specific IgG and/or IgM antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid
CPT
86658
SNOMED
122449006
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid; minimum 0.5 mL for testing
Stability
Specimen should be transported to laboratory immediately. Store at 2-8°C if testing within 24-48 hours. For prolonged storage, freeze at -70°C or below. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Coxsackievirus A2 antibody test measures the presence and quantity of antibodies against Coxsackievirus A2 in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. This test helps doctors determine if your nervous system infection is caused by this specific virus.

How is the sample collected?

The CSF sample is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap. A healthcare provider inserts a thin needle into the lower back to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid. This procedure is performed by trained medical professionals and usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Why is this test ordered?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a brain or spinal cord infection, such as fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, or sensitivity to light. Coxsackievirus A2 is a type of enterovirus that can cause viral meningitis, encephalitis, or other neurological complications.

Reference range

Negative or <1:8 titer; Specific interpretive criteria vary by laboratory methodology. Positive results indicate intrathecal production of Coxsackievirus A2 antibodies suggesting central nervous system infection.N/A

Specimen: csf

No fasting required. Patient should be informed about the lumbar puncture procedure. Adequate hydration is recommended. Consent should be obtained. Contraindications include increased intracranial pressure, skin infection at puncture site, and coagulopathy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is the lumbar puncture procedure painful?
A local anesthetic is used to numb the area, so you may feel pressure or discomfort but not significant pain. Some patients experience a mild headache afterward, which can be managed with rest and fluids.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, as the test requires specialized laboratory processing to detect antibodies.
What do the results mean?
A positive result suggests infection with Coxsackievirus A2. A negative result does not completely rule out infection—it may be too early in the disease process to detect antibodies, or your symptoms may be caused by a different pathogen.
Is this test related to heart conditions?
While this test is categorized under cardiac in some systems, it detects antibodies in CSF for neurological infections. However, Coxsackieviruses can also affect the heart (causing myocarditis), so your doctor may order cardiac tests if heart symptoms are present.
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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