What is a Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Test?
The Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a herpes virus. Additional forms of herpes viruses include chickenpox and mononucleosis (mono).
CMV infections are prevalent. The virus persists in the body for the remainder of one's life after the original infection. The virus is primarily latent most of the time (inactive). Yet, under some circumstances, such as stress or an immune system malfunction, it might become active again.
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Get A Second OpinionUnderstanding Cytomegalovirus(CMV) Infections -
- CMV infections in healthy adults often result in mild or asymptomatic cases. Many individuals who have CMV are not aware of their infection.
- CMV can pose a significant risk to individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV or cancer.
- Pregnant women who are infected with CMV can pass the virus to their unborn child.
- CMV infection in newborns can lead to serious health issues such as deafness, eye problems, intellectual disability, and other complications.
- CMV tests are used to detect the presence of the virus in blood, sputum, or other bodily fluids.
- Testing for CMV helps identify patients who are at risk and enables appropriate therapy to be administered.
- While there is currently no cure for CMV, antiviral medications and other treatments can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall outcomes.
What are CMVs Used for?
CMV tests are used to aid in diagnosing a current, reactivated, or previous CMV infection in persons at risk of health consequences. Groups at risk include:
- Individuals who have reduced immune systems because of any illnesses or disorders.
- Individuals who have recently had an organ transplant.
- Women who are pregnant and have CMV symptoms.
- Infection symptoms in newborns
Why Do I Need a CMV Test?
One may need this test when they have a weakened immune system or are pregnant with following :
Your baby may need this test if he or she has the following symptoms:
- Jaundice
- Low birth weight
- Small head
- Hearing and vision problems
- Seizures
What Happens During a CMV Test?
There are many types of CMV tests, such as:
Blood test
This is the most often used method for testing people for CMV.
During the test, a healthcare provider will use a tiny needle to draw blood from a vein in the arm. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected in a test tube or vial.
CSF test
A spinal tap, also known as a lumbar puncture, will be used to acquire a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample. A numbing substance (anesthetic) will be injected into your back during the test, and a thin, hollow needle will be inserted between two vertebrae in your lower spine. The little bones that make up your spine are known as vertebrae.
After that, your physician will extract a tiny amount of fluid.
Sputum examination
Sputum is a thick mucus that accumulates in the lungs after an infection or persistent sickness. During the test, your doctor will ask you to breathe and cough into a particular cup.
To assist in releasing sputum from your lungs, your physician may tap you on the chest.
Biopsy
Your physician will take a tiny tissue sample for testing during the exam.
Biopsies can be performed with a needle or a specialized surgical device.
Amniocentesis
This test is used on pregnant women to determine if their unborn child has CMV. You will be lying on your back on an exam table for the process.
Ultrasound equipment will be passed over your belly by your provider. Ultrasound examines the location of your uterus, placenta, and baby using sound waves.
A fine needle will be inserted into your abdomen by your physician to extract a small amount of amniotic fluid.
A saliva or urine test is routinely administered to newborns.
During a Saliva Test on an Infant:
- A sterile swab will be inserted into your baby's cheek and swirled for several seconds.
- For testing, the swab will be put in a specific solution.
During a Urine Test on an Infant:
- You'll be handed a unique plastic bag to place over your baby's genital region.
- You will cover the bag with a diaper.
- When your infant has urinated, remove the bag from the diaper and dump the urine into the container provided by your provider.
How to Prepare for the CMV Test?
- A blood or sputum test requires no specific preparation. A newborn saliva or urine test also requires no preparation.
- Before a lumbar puncture, you may need to empty your bladder.
- Before a biopsy, you may be instructed to fast (not eat or drink) for many hours.
- Depending on your stage of pregnancy, you may be requested to retain a full bladder or to empty your bladder shortly before the surgery.
- If more preparations are required, your physician or child's provider will notify you.
What are the Associated Risks?
A sputum, newborn saliva, or infant urine test has no known risks. If there is some discomfort, then it will go away soon.
What Do the Findings Imply?
The test result can determine whether you have been infected with CMV. Nevertheless, it cannot determine if the infection is present, previous, or renewed. If you have symptoms and risk factors, such as an immune system issue, your physician may do further tests to assist in making a diagnosis and developing a treatment plan. If your amniocentesis reveals that your baby has CMV, your child's physician may test and treat your infant promptly after delivery to help prevent difficulties.
If you have any concerns regarding your results, speak with your doctor or your child's doctor.
Important information about CMV Testing?
CMV tests are included in a TORCH panel, which is a collection of blood tests used to screen infants and pregnant women for the following infections:
- Toxoplasmosis
- Rubella
- Cytomegalovirus
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
If a woman contracts certain diseases while pregnant, it might result in birth abnormalities. Early detection and treatment may help a newborn avoid developing a significant health condition.
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Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that can infect people of all ages. It is a member of the herpesvirus group and can cause various symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
CMV can be diagnosed through a blood test that detects antibodies to the virus or by testing bodily fluids for the virus itself. In some cases, a biopsy may be done to confirm a diagnosis.
A CMV IgM blood test measures the levels of IgM antibodies to CMV in the blood. IgM antibodies are produced in response to a recent infection, so this test can determine if a person has a current or recent CMV infection.
No, a CMV blood test cannot detect the virus in breast milk. If a mother is concerned about CMV transmission through breast milk, a milk sample can be tested directly for the virus.
CMV tests are generally accurate, but false positive and false negative results can occur. It is important to discuss test results with a doctor to determine the best treatment plan.
Yes, CMV testing is commonly used to screen potential organ donors. The test can determine if the donor has been infected with CMV in the past, which can help reduce the risk of CMV transmission to the organ recipient.
CMV test costs around Rs. 300 to Rs. 500, it might vary from place to place.
You may need testing if you have a weakened immune system or are pregnant and have the following:
- Swollen lymph nodes.
- Sore throat.
- Fever.
- Fatigue.
- Weakness.
- Muscle aches.
- Headache.
The IgG for CMV's normal range is 620 to 1400 mg/dl.
You can get the CMV test at Medicover Hospitals along with other tests.
