Herpesvirus 6 Antibodies (IgG, IgM) Test
This test measures IgG and IgM antibodies to human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) in a blood sample. Together, the two antibody types give a picture of past or recent immune response to the virus.
About this test
Human herpesvirus 6, or HHV-6, is a virus that Quest describes as typically causing a self-limiting illness in people who are not immunocompromised. This test uses an immunofluorescence assay on a serum sample to measure IgG and IgM antibody levels specific to HHV-6, and the report includes an interpretation of those levels alongside the individual antibody results.
In people who are immunocompromised, Quest notes that HHV-6 has been associated with a wider range of presentations, including febrile convulsions in infants, encephalitis, mononucleosis-like symptoms and hepatitis. A clinician reads the antibody pattern together with a person's symptoms and immune status rather than on its own.
Who might consider this test?
- Often following up on an illness that a clinician associates with HHV-6
- Checking antibody status in someone who is immunocompromised
- Where the virus has been linked to a wider range of presentations
Test details
| Quest code | 34282 |
|---|---|
| Methodology | Immunofluorescence Assay |
| Sample type | 0.5 mL serum |
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports IgG and IgM antibody levels to HHV-6 along with an interpretation line, using an immunofluorescence assay on a small serum sample. IgG and IgM antibodies typically reflect different stages of immune response, which is why both are measured together.
Order online and a physician order is included — no doctor's visit and no insurance needed. Your sample is collected at a Quest Diagnostics patient service center.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures IgG and IgM antibodies to human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) in a serum sample, using an immunofluorescence assay.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Who is this test more relevant for?
Quest notes that HHV-6 typically causes a self-limiting illness in people who are not immunocompromised, but has been associated with a wider range of presentations in people who are immunocompromised, including febrile convulsions in infants, encephalitis, mononucleosis-like symptoms and hepatitis.
What does the interpretation line on the report mean?
Along with the IgG and IgM antibody results, the report includes an interpretation line. A clinician reads all three together rather than relying on a single antibody value.
How much does the Herpesvirus 6 Antibodies test cost?
The cash price at Celio Health is $200. That covers the physician's order and sample collection at a Quest patient service center — no insurance is needed and there's no separate doctor's visit to pay for.