ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody, IgM by ELISA (CSF) : 0054445

Mnemonic: VZMCSF

Methodology: Semi-Quantitative Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Performed: Mon-Fri
Reported: 1-5 days
Specimen Required: Collect: CSF.

Specimen Preparation: Transfer 0.5 mL CSF to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.3 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Unacceptable Conditions: Specimen types other than CSF. Contaminated or heat-inactivated specimens.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 2 weeks; Frozen: 1 year
Reference Interval:
0.90 ISR or less: Negative - No significant level of IgM antibody to varicella-zoster virus detected.
0.91-1.09 ISR: Equivocal - Repeat testing in 10-14 days may be helpful.
1.10 ISR or greater: Positive - Significant level of IgM antibody to varicella-zoster virus detected, which may indicate 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 varicella-zoster in CSF may indicate central nervous system infection. However, consideration must be given to possible contamination by blood or transfer of serum antibodies across the blood-brain barrier.

See Compliance Statement B: www.aruplab.com/CS
CPT Code(s): 86787
Cross References: Chicken Pox [Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody, IgM by ELISA (CSF)], Herpes Zoster [Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody, IgM by ELISA (CSF)], Shingles [Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibody, IgM by ELISA (CSF)]