Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) IgM-RRPL
Discipline
Microbiology
Overview
Description
Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) is the causative agent of chicken pox and shingles.
The presence of VZV-specific IgM is used to detect acute or recent VZV infection.
Ordering Recommendations
Symptomatic patients with suspected VZV infection
NOTE: IgM should only be requested on symptomatic patients. If acute VZV infection is suspected, a lesion swab should be submitted for NAAT (PCR) testing (see Lesion Panel compendium entry).
Alias
- Herpes Zoster IgM
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.
NOTE: Specimens positive for VZV IgM will automatically receive VZV IgG testing.
NOTE: Positive VZV IgM results are reported to a Medical Health Officer.
Specimen retention time
- Specimens retained for 10 days after testing.
Last Updated: October 29, 2025