CMV, cytomegalovirus - serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of human cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibodies
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Serology
Specimen Type	○ Serum ○ Plasma ○ Whole blood

Other Information

○ For pregnant women and cases of suspected congenital infection, collect both blood for serology (IgM and IgG) and urine for viral detection
○ Prenatal samples positive for IgM and IgG will be sent to PHOL for avidity testing.

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Whole blood/Serum: Serum separator tube (clotted blood)
○ Plasma: EDTA-blood

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood (2mL or less if infant)
○ Neonates: a minimum of 1 mL; if ordered as part of a TORCH screen, 2.5 mL of blood is sufficient for all serology tests

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

In-house

Routine Turnaround Time

○ 24 hours

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4483

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored at refrigeration temperature (2-8˚C) after collection and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP

○ The specimen will be referred to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for avidity testing.

* Testing for living/cadaveric donors is performed in house