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Cvb4abmsmtcsf

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

This test detects antibodies against Coxsackievirus B4 in cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose viral infections affecting the brain or nervous system.

Quick summary

{"Measures antibodies to Coxsackievirus B4 in spinal fluid","Helps diagnose viral infections of the central nervous system","Often ordered when patients have symptoms of meningitis or encephalitis","Results help doctors distinguish viral from bacterial infections","Sample is collected via lumbar puncture (spinal tap)"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109905-0
Short code
COXB4-CSF
Synonyms
CV B4 Ab Msmt CSF
Category
cardiac
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile polypropylene tube for CSF collection (typically sterile glass tube)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) or Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
CPT
86658
SNOMED
122444000
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
Stability
Refrigerate at 2-8°C if processing delayed; stable up to 24 hours; for longer storage, freeze at -70°C and avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Coxsackievirus B4 antibody test is a laboratory test that looks for specific antibodies in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. This test detects IgM and IgG antibodies that your immune system produces in response to Coxsackievirus B4 infection.

Why is it ordered?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a central nervous system infection such as meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Symptoms may include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, seizures, or unusual sleepiness. The test helps determine if a viral infection, specifically Coxsackievirus B4, is the cause of your symptoms.

How is the sample collected?

The sample is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap. A healthcare provider inserts a thin needle between the bones in your lower spine to collect a small amount of CSF. The procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes. You may experience some discomfort or soreness at the puncture site afterward.

What do the results mean?

A positive result means that antibodies to Coxsackievirus B4 were detected in your CSF, suggesting a recent or past infection with this virus. A negative result means no antibodies were found, which could indicate no infection or that the infection is too early to detect. Your doctor will interpret these results along with your symptoms, physical exam, and other test results to make a diagnosis.

Reference range

Negative or Titer <1:4; Positive results indicate intrathecal antibody production against Coxsackievirus B4N/A

Specimen: csf

No special preparation required. Patient should be informed of lumbar puncture procedure and consent obtained. Maintain standard precautions during CSF collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful?
The lumbar puncture may cause some discomfort or pressure, but it is generally well-tolerated. Your doctor may use a local anesthetic to numb the area before the procedure.
How long does it take to get results?
Results typically take 2-5 days, as the test requires specialized laboratory analysis to detect specific antibodies.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. However, you should follow your doctor's instructions regarding any medications you are taking.
What is the difference between IgM and IgG antibodies?
IgM antibodies are the first antibodies your body produces when infected and indicate a recent infection. IgG antibodies develop later and provide long-term immunity, indicating past infection or prior exposure.
Can this test diagnose myocarditis?
This specific test looks for antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid. For diagnosing myocarditis (heart muscle inflammation), doctors typically use blood tests or heart imaging. However, Coxsackievirus B4 can cause both heart and nervous system infections.
  1. 1
    Coxsackievirus B Infections - MedscapeSource
  2. 2
    Enterovirus Infections - CDCSource
  3. 3
    Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Mayo ClinicSource

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