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Respiratory syncytial virus antibodies |
| Definition: |
| RSV antibody test is a blood test that measures the levels of antibodies (immunoglobulins) against the viral infection respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). |
| Alternative Names: |
| RSV antibody test; RSV serology |
| How the test is performed: |
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Blood is drawn from a vein (venipuncture), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and a tourniquet (an elastic band) or blood pressure cuff is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the tourniquet to distend (fill with blood). A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the tourniquet is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
| No restrictions of food or fluid are required for this test. If your child is to have this test performed, it may be helpful to explain how the test will feel (even practice or demonstrate on a doll). The more familiar your child is with what will happen to them, and the purpose for the procedure, the less anxiety they will feel. |
| How the test will feel: |
| When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing. |
| Why the test is performed: |
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This test detects the body's response to RSV, not the virus itself. If the body has produced antibodies against RSV, then either a current or past infection has occurred. In infants, RSV antibodies which have been passed from mother to baby may also be detected. |
| Normal Values: |
| In infants, a positive test may detect the RSV antibodies which have been passed from mother to child. In children, a positive test may indicate either current or past infection with RSV. Most adults will have a positive test because most people have had an RSV infection. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
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A positive test in age groups other than infants indicates a current or past infection with RSV. Because most adults have had an RSV infection, a positive test most likely reflects a past infection. In infants a positive test most likely reflects maternal antibody, and therefore may not indicate true infection with RSV. |
| What the risks are: |
| Risks associated with venipuncture are mild: |
| Special considerations: |
| This test is of limited value because it does not detect RSV directly. It is not recommended in infants because maternal antibodies may be detected, and it is not useful in adults as most people will have antibodies due to prior infection. |
Reviewed By: Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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