CMV IgM

General Information

Please state clearly the serological tests required and provide relevant clinical information. If unsure, contact Clinical Microbiologist or Virologist for advice.

When adequate information is not provided, serum will be stored and a report requesting more details issued. Serum will be discarded after 2 weeks if this additional information is not received.

Many serological tests require both acute and convalescent sera (10-14 days following onset); the PHE laboratory will not perform assays on acute phase serum until a follow up convalescent sample is provided. Serological assays which require a follow up sample will be stored in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital Microbiology laboratory and a report issued requesting a convalescent sample. The serum will be discarded after one month if convalescent serum is not provided.

When patients present late in the clinical course of an infection and only convalescent serum is available, please state this information clearly on the request form to ensure the assay will be performed.

Please request EBV and/or CMV serology (IgG and IgM) to exclude acute infection

Many of these tests are routinely available in the Clinical Microbiology Department.

However, if a rapid result is required please telephone and discuss.

Other serological tests may be arranged on request. Results are available 3 to 7 days following receipt. Please contact the laboratory if you require more information regarding a request.

Samples sent to Heartlands for processing.

Information Sharing: If your sample needs to be referred or a notifiable disease is detected from your sample, your details and sample may be shared with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). This is a legal requirement. The UKHSA is sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care.