Understanding Lab Tests for Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a rare but serious respiratory disease caused by infection with hantavirus, typically transmitted through exposure to infected rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. While HPS is primarily diagnosed through specialized viral testing and clinical evaluation, blood tests play an important supportive role in assessing overall health and ruling out other conditions.
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Respiratory Allergy Profile Region XVII: CA (northwest), OR (west), WA (west)
Since exposure to mouse urine proteins can lead to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, this comprehensive allergy panel helps evaluate if respiratory symptoms might be related to allergic reactions to rodent proteins or other environmental allergens common in the Pacific Northwest region. This testing can help healthcare providers differentiate between allergic respiratory responses and viral infections like HPS, particularly important given the overlapping exposure sources.
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The Role of Blood Testing in HPS Assessment
There isn't a single routine blood test that directly diagnoses hantavirus infection. However, blood testing is fundamental for evaluating the body's immune response, assessing respiratory-related complications, and helping healthcare providers differentiate HPS from other respiratory conditions, including allergic reactions that might occur from similar environmental exposures.
Understanding the Connection
Exposure to rodent environments that can lead to hantavirus infection may also trigger allergic reactions to mouse proteins and other environmental allergens. Testing for these allergic responses helps healthcare providers build a complete picture of how environmental exposures are affecting respiratory health and can guide appropriate treatment strategies.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you suspect hantavirus exposure or experience severe respiratory symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. Always consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
