What is Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgG and IgM test?

Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious airborne infection caused by the rubeola virus of the Paramyxoviridae family. The virus can stay alive for up to two hours outside the human body and generally spreads through sneezingcoughing or sharing items with the infected person such as using the same utensils. 

measles antibody test is a diagnostic test for measles that looks for the presence of anti-rubeola antibodies in your blood. Our body primarily produces two kinds of antibodies against the rubeola virus infection - immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM).

IgM is the first type of antibody that shows up when the virus enters the body, whereas IgG is produced later and stays in the body for a longer time to provide protection. So, the presence of these antibodies also helps in differentiating an active infection from a past infection.

  1. Why is Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgG and IgM test performed?
  2. How do you prepare for a Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgG and IgM test?
  3. How is a Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgG and IgM test performed?
  4. What do Measles (Rubeola) Antibody IgG and IgM test results mean?

Your doctor may order this test if you have the following symptoms:

Three to five days after these generalised symptoms, a rash appears that starts from the head and spreads down to the body.

When there is a suspected measles outbreak, this test is ordered to detect and prevent the spread of measles.

Since these antibodies are also produced after vaccination, the test can determine if you have been previously vaccinated against rubeola virus. 

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Fasting is not required before this test. Your doctor will explain the purpose of the test before you go for it. Please share your complete medical history with the doctor, so that your results can be interpreted accurately. Also, inform him/her if you are taking any prescription or non-prescription medicines or any supplements as these may interfere with the test results. However, do not discontinue any medication on your own.

It is a simple blood test that takes only a few minutes. A doctor or nurse will withdraw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. You may feel a slight pricking sensation when the needle is inserted, though it will subside soon. 

Some people also get a temporary bruise at the needle insertion site. If you have felt dizzy or have fainted during a blood test in the past or if you are scared of needles or the sight of blood, please inform your doctor or nurse so that they can help you feel more comfortable.

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Normal results:

  • Negative IgM: No current or prior infection
  • Negative IgG: No current or prior infection

A normal result may also be due to a compromised immune system or indicate that you are not immune to the virus.

Abnormal results:

  • Positive IgM and negative IgG: Early stage of infection
  • Positive IgM and positive IgG: Current or recent infection
  • Negative IgM and positive IgG: Immunity developed from vaccination or prior infection

Disclaimer: All results must be clinically correlated with the patient’s complaints to make a complete and accurate diagnosis. The above information is provided from a purely educational point of view and is in no way a substitute for medical advice by a qualified doctor.

References

  1. Wilson DD. McGraw-Hill’s Manual of Laboratory and Diagnostic Tests. Measles (rubeola) antibody test. 2008. Pp: 389-390
  2. Center for Disease Control and Prevention [internet], Atlanta (GA): US Department of Health and Human Services; Questions About Measles
  3. National Health Service [internet]. UK; Blood Tests
  4. Center for Disease Control and Prevention [internet], Atlanta (GA): US Department of Health and Human Services; Measles Cases and Outbreaks
  5. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: US National Library of Medicine; Measles and Mumps Tests
  6. Center for Disease Control and Prevention [internet], Atlanta (GA): US Department of Health and Human Services; Questions and Answers about Lab Testing

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