Sample results
Immunocompromised conditions occur when the body's immune system is weakened or suppressed, making individuals highly susceptible to serious infections and complications. They are caused by HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation requiring immunosuppressive drugs, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or chronic steroid use. The Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Antibodies IgG test is the most important test for monitoring infection risk in immunocompromised patients.
Immunocompromised conditions are caused by factors that weaken or suppress the immune system's ability to fight infections. HIV/AIDS directly destroys CD4 T-cells, the immune system's primary defenders. Organ transplant recipients must take immunosuppressive medications like tacrolimus and cyclosporine to prevent organ rejection. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer treatment damage bone marrow where immune cells are produced. Chronic use of corticosteroids like prednisone suppresses immune function. Certain genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases requiring immunosuppressive treatment, and severe malnutrition also compromise immunity.
The Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Antibodies IgG test is the most important test for immunocompromised patients because it detects antibodies against CMV, a herpesvirus that causes severe complications in people with weakened immune systems. CMV can lead to pneumonia, gastroenteritis, hepatitis, encephalitis, and retinitis that may cause blindness in immunocompromised individuals. This test identifies whether you have been exposed to CMV (showing IgG antibodies), which helps doctors determine your infection risk and create a monitoring plan. Additional important tests include complete blood count with differential to monitor white blood cell levels, CD4 T-cell count for HIV patients, and immunoglobulin levels to assess overall immune function.
You should get tested if you are preparing for organ transplantation, recently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, starting chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy, or experiencing frequent infections that don't resolve normally. Get tested immediately if you develop fever without obvious cause, unusual infections like thrush or shingles, persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or night sweats. Anyone taking long-term steroids or immunosuppressive medications should have regular monitoring blood work every 3-6 months or as recommended by their healthcare provider to catch potential complications early.
What this means
Your test came back negative, meaning no CMV IgG antibodies were detected in your blood. This indicates you've never been infected with Cytomegalovirus and do not have immunity to it. If you're pregnant or planning pregnancy, your doctor may recommend precautions to avoid exposure.
Recommended actions
Practice thorough handwashing, especially after contact with young children's saliva or urine
Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils with young children
Discuss precautions with your doctor if you're pregnant or immunocompromised
Consider retesting each trimester if pregnant to monitor for new infection
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
Sample results
Your 24/7 Personal Lab Guide
Quick questions: