Cmv

Scissorhandz

What does it mean when donor cmv is positive(igG/lgM negative)

cryo-admin

Hi Scissor -

Excellent question.

The "CMV Total Antibody test" is a screening test mandated by the FDA. By design, it detects all antibodies to CMV, including IgG and IgM, however, screening tests are known to occasionally detect antibodies that may be similar, but not clinically relevant or meaningful.

It's the presence of specific IgG or IgM antibodies to CMV that tell us the CMV status of an individual: a current or recent infection, a remote infection, or no history of infection.

A positive IgM result indicates a current or recent CMV infection and a donor with this status would not be able to participate in our program. A positive IgG result in combination with a negative IgM result indicates historic exposure to CMV. Donors with this status are listed as "Positive" on our website. (Please note that about 50-85% of people in the U.S. test positive for CMV.)

When a donor is listed as "Positive (IgG/IgM Negative)", it is because the initial screening test gave a positive result, but the subsequent IgG and IgM specific tests were negative. CCB provides you and your physician with results of the total antibody screening test and the specific tests for IgG and IgM so that you can discuss the findings with your physician. Our medical directors believe that it's the result of specific tests for IgG and IgM that are indicative of a donor's actual CMV status.

Regards,

Nicole
CCB