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Cytomegalovirus Antibody, Qualitative (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test checks for antibodies against cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common virus that can affect the immune system. Antibodies indicate if your body has ever been exposed to CMV.

Quick summary

["CMV antibodies help determine past infection or immunity status."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82958-0
Short code
HEDIS 2017-18 CMV Ab
Synonyms
HEDIS 2017-18 CMV Ab
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 Does This Test Measure?

The test detects the presence of CMV-specific antibodies in your blood. These antibodies develop after your body has encountered the virus, either through infection or vaccination (if applicable). The qualitative result simply tells you whether antibodies are present or not.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test to evaluate past exposure to CMV, especially in people with weakened immune systems, pregnant individuals, or those at higher risk of complications from CMV infection.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your body has produced antibodies against CMV, suggesting you’ve likely had an infection at some point. This does not indicate the current state of your infection or immunity.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result means your body did not detect CMV antibodies in this test. This could mean you’ve never been exposed to CMV or the test was taken too early after exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: CMV Antibodies Provide Historical Exposure Information

Short name

CMV Antibody Test

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Can I get false results from this test?
While rare, false results can occur if you have recent or active CMV infection, which may not yet show detectable antibodies. Your healthcare provider will consider clinical context when interpreting results.
Does this test differentiate between different types of CMV exposure?
No, this qualitative test only indicates the presence or absence of CMV antibodies. For more detailed information about specific antibody types (e.g., IgG vs. IgM), additional testing may be needed.
  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