Cytomegalovirus (CMV) antibodies blood test in Chiswick
This blood test checks for IgG antibodies to cytomegalovirus (CMV), a common virus in the herpes family. It shows whether you have been infected in the past, which matters most before pregnancy, transplantation or when immunity is lowered.
What the test measures
Cytomegalovirus is a very common virus that spreads through saliva, urine and other body fluids, often among young children. Most people catch it at some point, many in childhood, and usually notice nothing or have a mild illness like glandular fever. Once infected, the virus stays in the body for life in an inactive state, much like other herpes viruses.
CMV matters most in pregnancy, because a first infection during pregnancy can sometimes be passed to the baby, and in people with weakened immunity, such as transplant recipients, in whom the virus can reactivate. This test measures CMV IgG antibodies, which show past infection. It does not measure IgM, which can suggest recent infection, so it is best for understanding your background status.
The price includes the blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.
Who it is for
- You are planning a pregnancy and would like to know whether you have had CMV.
- You work closely with young children, for example in a nursery, and want to know your status.
- You are being assessed for a transplant or will be donating blood products, eggs or sperm.
- You have a weakened immune system and your specialist has asked for CMV status.
- You had a glandular fever-like illness and want to understand past infections.
Understanding your result
A positive IgG result means you have had CMV at some point and carry antibodies. This is very common and is not usually a cause for concern, although reinfection with a different strain is still possible. A negative result means you have probably never been infected, so good hygiene, especially handwashing after nappy changes and avoiding sharing food or cutlery with young children, is worth paying attention to if you are pregnant or planning to be.
IgG alone cannot tell when an infection happened. If recent infection is a concern, especially in pregnancy, your GP or midwife can arrange further tests. Your result is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis.
Preparing for your test
No fasting or special preparation is needed, and you can test at any time of day. If you have had a blood transfusion or immunoglobulin treatment in recent months, please tell us, as it can affect antibody results.
CMV IgG is included in the Omnia Signature (£961). If you are planning a pregnancy, our fertility tests look at hormones and ovarian reserve. You can also browse every blood test and price in Chiswick.
Questions
How much is a CMV antibody test in Chiswick?
The Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Antibodies test costs £199 at our Chiswick clinic. The price includes the blood sample, accredited laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.
Is CMV routinely tested in UK pregnancy?
No. CMV is not part of routine NHS antenatal screening, which is why some people choose to check their status privately and discuss it with their midwife.
If I am positive, can I pass CMV on?
The virus can occasionally reactivate and be shed in body fluids, usually without symptoms. Good hygiene reduces the chance of spreading it.
Does this test show a current infection?
Not on its own. IgG shows past infection. Assessing a current or recent infection needs other tests arranged by your doctor.
