Test Details
Methodology
Enzyme immunoassay (EIA)
Result Turnaround Time
1 - 4 days
Turnaround time is defined as the usual number of days from the date of pickup of a specimen for testing to when the result is released to the ordering provider. In some cases, additional time should be allowed for additional confirmatory or additional reflex tests. Testing schedules may vary.
Use
This test is used to detect IgM antibodies specific for VZV. These IgM antibodies, if present, can help confirm a diagnosis of VZV acute infection. The IgM response to VZV can be detected at seven days postinfection and usually peaks at 14 days. If a patient presents more than nine days after the appearance of a rash, this assay should not be used. (See Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) Antibodies, IgG [096206]).
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Stability Requirements
Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
Room temperature | 14 days |
Refrigerated | 14 days |
Frozen | 14 days |
Freeze/thaw cycles | Stable x3 |
Reference Range
• Negative: <0.91 index
• Borderline: 0.91−1.09 index
• Positive: >1.09 index
Storage Instructions
Maintain specimen at room temperature.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolysis; lipemia; gross bacterial contamination; plasma samples
LOINC® Map
| Order Code | Order Code Name | Order Loinc | Result Code | Result Code Name | UofM | Result LOINC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 096776 | Varicella-Zoster Ab, IgM | 29662-4 | 096778 | Varicella-Zoster Ab, IgM | index | 29662-4 |
| Order Code | 096776 | |||||
| Order Code Name | Varicella-Zoster Ab, IgM | |||||
| Order Loinc | 29662-4 | |||||
| Result Code | 096778 | |||||
| Result Code Name | Varicella-Zoster Ab, IgM | |||||
| UofM | index | |||||
| Result LOINC | 29662-4 |