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Coxsackievirus B6 Antibody Blood Test

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

This blood test measures antibodies against Coxsackievirus B6, a virus that can cause inflammation of the heart and other infections. It helps your doctor find out whether your symptoms are due to a recent or past infection with this virus.

Quick summary

{"Measures immune response to Coxsackievirus B6 infection","Helps diagnose heart infections like myocarditis","Often requires two blood samples (acute and convalescent) for accurate diagnosis","A positive result indicates current or past infection","Results are interpreted by comparing antibody levels over time"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24271-9
Short code
COXB6
Synonyms
CV B6 Ab sp1 Titr Ser
Category
cardiac
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST/Gold top) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
8
Ref high
32
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA/ELISA) or Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA)
CPT
86658
SNOMED
122442006
Specimen volume
1.0 mL minimum serum (2.0 mL preferred for adequate testing)
Stability
Serum: Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Coxsackievirus B6 antibody test is a blood test that measures the level of antibodies (immune proteins) your body produces in response to Coxsackievirus B6, a type of enterovirus. This virus is part of a group of viruses known to cause various infections, including heart-related conditions.

Why is it ordered?

This test is primarily ordered when you have symptoms suggesting a heart infection, such as myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle) or pericarditis (inflammation of the heart's outer lining). Symptoms may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, fever, and irregular heartbeat. Your doctor may also order this test if you have unexplained flu-like symptoms that persist or worsen.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory to measure the level of Coxsackievirus B6 antibodies. Often, two blood samples are collected - one during the acute phase of illness (first specimen) and another 2-4 weeks later (convalescent specimen) to see if antibody levels have increased, which confirms a recent infection.

What do the results mean?

Results are reported as a titer (a measure of how much antibody is present). A significant rise in antibody levels between the first and second sample (typically a 4-fold increase) indicates a recent or active Coxsackievirus B6 infection. A single positive result may indicate either a current or past infection. Your doctor will interpret the results in combination with your symptoms and other test findings.

Reference range

Negative: <1:8; Equivocal: 1:8 to 1:32; Positive: ≥1:64. Titer values may vary by laboratory methodology. A four-fold rise in titer between acute and convalescent specimens (drawn 2-4 weeks apart) indicates recent infection.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Fasting is not necessary for this test. Inform the laboratory of any recent viral infections, immunizations, or immunosuppressive therapy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful?
The test involves a simple blood draw, which may cause brief discomfort or a slight pinch. The procedure typically takes only a few minutes.
Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally before having your blood drawn.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results.
What is the treatment for Coxsackievirus B6 infection?
Treatment is primarily supportive and focuses on relieving symptoms. This may include rest, pain relievers, and medications to manage heart-related symptoms. Most people recover fully with proper care.
Can I prevent Coxsackievirus B6 infection?
There is no specific vaccine for this virus. Prevention includes frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and disinfecting surfaces regularly.
  1. 1
    Coxsackievirus B - MedlinePlusSource
  2. 2
    Myocarditis - Mayo ClinicSource
  3. 3
    Enterovirus Infections - CDCSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy