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Mumps IgM - RRPL

Discipline

Microbiology

Overview

Description

  • Mumps is a viral illness characterized by painful swollen salivary glands (parotitis), fever, headache, muscle aches, weakness, and fatigue.

  • The presence of mumps-specific IgM indicates acute or recent mumps infection or recent mumps vaccination.

Ordering recommendations

  • Measles IgM may be ordered for patients exhibiting Mumps symptoms.

  • NOTE:  IgM should only be requested on symptomatic patients.  If acute Mumps infection is suspected, a buccal swab or urine should also be submitted for NAAT (PCR) testing (see Mumps NAAT compendium entry).

Specimen Information

Specimen types accepted

  • Serum

Specimen collection container

  • Serum separator tubes (SST; Tiger top or Gold top)

Collection procedure

  • Serum (SST): Collect blood in serum separator vacutainer (SST). Centrifuge. Aliquot.

Required volume

  • 1mL (minimum)

Transport and stability

  • Serum may be shipped at ambient temperature.

Performance

Methodology

  • Qualitative chemiluminescence immunoassay from DiaSorin (Positive/Indeterminate/Negative)
  • NOTE: Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms, exposure, and vaccination history

Days/times performed

  • All specimens will be tested at RRPL.

Maximum laboratory time

  • Turn-around-time of 3 days from receipt in lab.

  • Positive Mumps IgM results are reported to a Medical Health Officer.

  • NOTE: Specimens positive for Mumps IgM will automatically receive Mumps IgG testing.

Specimen retention time

  • Specimens retained for 10 days after testing.

Last Updated: October 23, 2025