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Parvovirus B19 Antibody, Qualitative (IgM)

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

This test detects the presence of IgM antibodies against parvovirus B19, a virus that can cause severe anemia in people with certain blood disorders or pregnant individuals.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose recent parvovirus B19 infection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24427-7
Short code
M avium paraTB Spec Ql Cult
Synonyms
M avium paraTB Spec Ql Cult
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
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

IgM antibodies are a type of immune protein produced by your body in response to a recent infection. If this test is positive, it suggests you may have been exposed to parvovirus B19 within the last few months.

Why It’s Done

Healthcare providers may order this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or signs of anemia (such as pale skin or shortness of breath), especially if you’ve been exposed to someone with parvovirus B19 or if you’re pregnant.

What to Expect

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then tested in a lab to check for IgM antibodies. Results are typically available within a few days.

Possible Results

A positive result indicates recent infection. A negative result means you likely haven’t been infected recently, but you may still have antibodies from past exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Parvovirus B19 can cause serious complications, particularly in pregnant women (risking fetal anemia or miscarriage) or in people with sickle cell disease or other blood disorders. Early detection helps guide treatment and monitoring.

Short name

IgM Antibody to Parvovirus B19

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result means your body is actively fighting off parvovirus B19 infection, which may cause symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or anemia. Further testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and guide care.
Can I get this test at home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting. Home testing kits are not available for this specific test.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are usually available within 2–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
  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