Ordering Recommendation
Not recommended for herpes simplex virus (HSV) testing. IgM lacks adequate predictive value for acute infection. Molecular testing is preferred; refer to Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1/HSV-2) Subtype by PCR (2010095).
Mnemonic
Methodology
Semi-Quantitative Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Performed
Sun-Sat
Reported
1-2 days
New York DOH Approval Status
Specimen Required
CSF.
Transfer 0.5 mL CSF to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.2 mL)
Refrigerated.
Contaminated, heat-inactivated, hemolyzed, icteric, or severely lipemic specimens.
Indicate source on test request form.
Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year
Reference Interval
0.89 IV or less | Negative - No significant level of detectable HSV IgM antibody. |
0.90-1.09 IV | Equivocal - Questionable presence of IgM antibodies. Repeat testing in 10-14 days may be helpful. |
1.10 IV or greater | Positive - IgM antibody to HSV detected, which may indicate a current or recent infection. However, low levels of IgM antibodies may occasionally persist for more than 12 months post-infection. |
Interpretive Data
The detection of antibodies to herpes simplex virus in CSF may indicate central nervous system infection. However, consideration must be given to possible contamination by blood or transfer or serum antibodies across the blood-brain barrier.
Fourfold or greater rise in CSF antibodies to herpes on specimens at least 4 weeks apart are found in 74-94% of patients with herpes encephalitis. Specificity of the test based on a single CSF testing is not established. Presently PCR is the primary means of establishing a diagnosis of herpes encephalitis.
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by ARUP Laboratories. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This test was performed in a CLIA certified laboratory and is intended for clinical purposes.
Modified FDA
Note
Hotline History
Hotline History
CPT Codes
86694
Components
Component Test Code* | Component Chart Name | LOINC |
---|---|---|
0050408 | HSV 1 and/or 2 Antibodies IgM, CSF | 63432-9 |
Aliases
- HSV
- HSV antibodies
- HSV IgM