This laboratory test is performed in a blood sample to measure the levels of Cytomegalovirus DNA in the body. Cytomegalovirus infection is a common virus that causes only mild illness that usually causes no symptoms in healthy people. However, it may cause serious health problems in conditions such as pregnancy and suppressed immunity.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
To detect the presence and measure the quantity of Cytomegalovirus DNA
To help in the diagnosis of Cytomegalovirus infection
To monitor the disease progression
To monitor the efficacy of antiviral therapy.
Collecting sample: A healthcare professional will collect blood from your vein into the test tube or from the heel stick, in the case of infants.
The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
What are the symptoms of CMV infection?
Usually, patients with CMV infection are asymptomatic. However, in severe infections, following symptoms may appear:
Fever
Fatigue
Weakness
Night sweats
Joint pain
Muscle pain
Weight loss
Low appetite
Swollen glands.
When should infants or newborns get tested?
Infants should be tested if they have:
Jaundice
Small head
Enlarged liver or spleen
Hearing and vision problems
Seizures
Low platelet count
What are the risks of this test?
Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:
Bruising
Bleeding
Infection
Lightheadedness
How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. Inform your doctor about the use of all prescribed and non-prescribed medicine. Wear a short-sleeved or loose shirt to ease the sample collection.
How does CMV virus spread?
CMV virus spreads with close contact. It can spread with the following body fluids:
Breast milk
Blood
Urine
Saliva
Semen
Urine
Negative or positive:
Interpretation of test results:
Negative: A negative result indicates that CMV virus is not detected
Positive: A positive result indicates that CMV virus is present.
High levels: Severe infection with severe symptoms
Low levels: Mild infection with mild or no symptoms
If your doctor suspects cytomegalovirus infection
If you are immunocompromised or pregnant with flu or mononucleosis-like symptoms
If you have undergone an organ or bone marrow transplant
If your baby is born with certain congenital abnormalities.