Fluorescent antibody test for anti-varicella-zoster virus antibodies (IgG)
This test measures your immune response to the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), which causes chickenpox and shingles. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to or vaccinated against these viruses.
["Checks if your body has developed immunity to chickenpox or shingles."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 53381-0
- Short code
- FLUAV Ab Ser
- Synonyms
- FLUAV Ab Ser
- 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 This Test Measures
The test detects antibodies (specifically IgG) produced by your immune system in response to the varicella-zoster virus. These antibodies indicate past exposure to the virus, either through infection or vaccination. IgG antibodies remain in your system long-term and provide immunity.
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order this test to confirm a diagnosis of chickenpox or shingles, assess immunity after vaccination, or evaluate exposure risk in high-risk individuals (e.g., healthcare workers, immunocompromised patients).
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is processed to separate serum (liquid part of blood) for testing. The test uses a fluorescent antibody technique to identify specific antibodies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a slight bruise or discomfort at the injection site, but this usually fades quickly. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your doctor know.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results (detecting VZV IgG antibodies) suggest past infection or vaccination, providing protection against future outbreaks. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, indicating either no prior exposure or recent infection (IgG may take weeks to develop). This test is critical for public health surveillance, vaccination monitoring, and managing outbreaks in vulnerable populations.
Short name
Varicella-Zoster Virus IgG Antibody (Fluorescent Antibody)
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have active chickenpox or shingles?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I get chickenpox or shingles if I have positive VZV IgG antibodies?
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