Varicella Zoster IgG

Also known as Chicken Pox, Herpes zoster IgG

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation required

Understanding Varicella Zoster IgG

What is Varicella Zoster IgG?

This test checks the presence of IgG antibodies produced against Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV). VZV is highly contagious and can cause chickenpox and shingles. First ever exposure to the virus causes chickenpox and IgG antibodies produced in response to the infection provide life long immunity to the disease. Later second time exposure to the virus leads to development a painful rash called shingles. Chickenpox is highly contagious disease and manifested as fever, blisters, papules and rashes. Shigels also have similar symptoms.

Immunocompromised patients and pregnant women can develop serious conditions if not treated well in time.

What is Varicella Zoster IgG used for?

The Varicella Zoster IgG test is done:

In case of symptoms of varicella zoster virus infection
To check immunity for varicella zoster virus infection
In case of person with weakened immune system exposed to chickenpox
Prior to organ transplant

Interpreting Varicella Zoster IgG results

Interpretations

Result in U/mL	Remarks
< 8	Negative
8 - 12	Equivocal
> 12	Positive

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Varicella Zoster IgG

Frequently Asked Questions about Varicella Zoster IgG

Q. If the results of Varicella Zoster IgG test come positive, does it mean that the person already has immunity to VZV?

Positive results indicate the presence of antibodies against varicella zoster virus in the body. Based on the patient’s history, clinical presentation, and other laboratory results, it can be interpreted as to whether the infection is active or a past one.

Q. What does a negative VZV IgG result mean in case a patient has already been vaccinated?

The negative results may or may not indicate lack of immunity as vaccinated people have a lower level of VZV antibodies as compared to a person with a history of infection.

Q. What is meant by equivocal result of VZV IgG test?

An equivocal VZV IgG result indicates a borderline result, which means there is no definite answer about the infection. Hence, another sample should be collected and tested after 10-14 days of the first test.

Q. How is the blood sample taken?

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site from where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is then followed by inserting a small needle which has a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once the sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the needle is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the withdrawal of blood sample procedure?

As such there is no risk but in few cases, bruising, bleeding, and infection at the puncture site can be seen. In very few cases, there can be swelling of the vein after the blood is withdrawn.

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