AN OVERVIEW
About varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test
Why is the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test done?
The varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test is done:
- To check if you have IgM antibodies present in your blood against the varicella zoster virus.
- To diagnose a recent or current varicella zoster virus infection.
What does the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test measure?
The varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test measures the immunoglobulin-M (IgM) antibodies produced by our immune system against the varicella zoster virus. These antibodies are produced for a short time period, usually one to two weeks after getting infected.
Risks/side effects of varicella zoster virus
No side effects are associated with a varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test, although, for a few days, some pain might be felt in the area from where the blood is taken using a needle. Covering it with a bandaid reduces the chances of an infection.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
FAQs
When is the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test performed?
You can go for the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test if you are not vaccinated against it or are experiencing the symptoms associated with chickenpox or shingles. These include:
- Red rashes on the body
- Fever
- Headache
- Sore throat
If you were recently exposed to chickenpox, you should definitely go for the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test.
Pregnant women can also go for the test, as they can transmit the infection to the foetus.
If you have a weakened immune system due to diseases like AIDS or HIV, you can go for the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test as well.
The test is sometimes also performed prior to an organ transplant.
How to prepare for the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test?
No specific preparations are required for the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test.
However, do inform your doctor about any drugs you are currently taking.
How is the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test performed?
The varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test involves taking a blood sample from a vein located in your arm. A syringe is used for the same. The area from where the blood would be taken would first be cleaned with an antiseptic solution. Once the blood sample has been collected, it will be sent to the laboratory.
THINGS TO KNOW AFTER GETTING TESTED
Interpreting the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test results
A positive varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test indicates the presence of antibodies in your blood. This means you either had the infection recently or currently have the infection.
However, a negative varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test does not necessarily mean the absence of antibodies. It might indicate that the antibodies were undetectable due to a low range or have not yet developed. You can go for a confirmatory test two-three weeks later.
Varicella Zoster Virus IgM (Chickenpox) Test In Chandigarh
Starts from 680*
Varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test is used to check whether a person has got infected with the varicella zoster virus, which causes chickenpox and shingles, and is a member of the herpes virus family.
Chickenpox is a contagious disease. Once you get infected with it, you will not get it again. However, it can remain inactive in your neurons for years and later become active again, causing shingles.
Read further to know more about the varicella zoster virus IgM (chickenpox) test in Chandigarh, including its price and cost, procedure, side effects, test results, etc.
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