Antibody test for Cytomegalovirus
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common DNA virus that belongs to the herpesvirus family. In healthy people, CMV rarely causes symptoms, but can cause serious complications in people with a weakened immune system or during pregnancy. The virus can be transmitted sexually, via blood transfusions, organ transplants or from mother to fetus during pregnancy, whereupon analysis is sometimes performed prior to IVF treatment.
In some cases, an infection during pregnancy can lead to severe congenital defects in the child, especially neurological ones. CMV is particularly relevant to investigate prior to fertility treatment, such as IVF. An ongoing or recent infection can affect both the treatment plan and outcome. After a primary infection, the virus remains latent in the body and can be reactivated during immunosuppression. Therefore, knowledge of CMV status is important during fertility investigation, transplantation or serious illness.
Purpose of CMV test (IgM and IgG)
The CMV test analyzes the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies in the blood. It is used to determine whether you have recently been infected with CMV or whether you have previously had the infection and thus developed immunity. The analysis is particularly important for:
- Before IVF and fertility investigation
- Planned pregnancy
- Investigation in case of suspected CMV infection
- For people who are about to have an organ transplant or have a weakened immune system
What does a positive CMV IgM value mean?
CMV IgM is a marker for an ongoing or recent infection. A positive result may indicate a primary infection or reactivation of latent virus. Since CMV can cause birth defects if infected during pregnancy, it is especially important to investigate this in the case of positive IgM in women of childbearing age or during ongoing pregnancy.
What does a positive CMV IgG value mean?
If CMV IgG is positive and IgM is negative, it indicates that the person has had a previous CMV infection and developed immunity. This is usually reassuring news, especially during fertility testing or a planned pregnancy, since the risk of primary infection is very low.
CMV and IVF – why the test is important
Before IVF, it is important to ensure that there is no active infection that could affect the course of the pregnancy or the fetus. Women who are seronegative (i.e. lack IgG) are at higher risk of becoming infected during pregnancy, which in turn can affect treatment and planning. A simple blood test can provide important information before deciding to start IVF or other fertility care.
CMV test – find out your immune status
The test is performed by taking a venous sample from the arm at one of our quality-assured sampling sites. The sample is analyzed at an accredited laboratory. You will receive your result digitally along with a medical comment from a doctor, so that you can understand what it means for you.
Order a CMV test
Our CMV IgG/IgM test gives you quick and clear information about your infection status. The sample can be submitted at all clinics and you will usually receive the test results within 5 working days.
