CMV

Product detailed description

CMV IgM and IgG testing is used to help diagnose cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, a common virus belonging to the herpesvirus family. IgM antibodies may indicate an acute or recent infection, while IgG antibodies suggest a past infection and the presence of immunity. The test is particularly important for pregnant women, immunocompromised patients, and patients undergoing evaluation before transplantation.

CMV IgG avidity testing helps determine whether the infection is a recent primary infection or one that occurred in the past. After infection, the binding strength (avidity) of IgG antibodies to the virus gradually increases. Low avidity may therefore indicate a relatively recent infection, whereas high avidity usually suggests that the infection occurred some time ago.

IgG avidity testing is mainly used as a complementary test when interpreting CMV IgG and IgM antibody results, especially when a more accurate estimate of the timing of infection is needed. This can be particularly important during pregnancy, when distinguishing between a recent and a past CMV infection may influence further clinical management.

The avidity result should always be interpreted together with other laboratory findings and the patient’s clinical condition.