Rubella Immune Status Most Popular

The Rubella Immune Status test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Rubella IgG Antibody test is a blood test that measures the level of IgG antibodies specific to the rubella virus in the bloodstream. Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral infection that can cause mild to severe symptoms, especially in pregnant women. This test helps determine a person's immunity to rubella by assessing their antibody levels.

Also Known As: German Measles test, 3 Day Measles Test, Three Day Measles Test, Rubella Titer Test

Collection Method: Blood draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When is a Rubella Antibody IgG test ordered?

When a woman is pregnant or planning to become pregnant, an IgG rubella test is ordered. It is required anytime a check for rubella immunity is required. When a pregnant woman exhibits signs and symptoms that could indicate a rubella infection, IgM and IgG rubella tests may be conducted.

The following are some of the signs and symptoms:

• Fever
• A pink rash that starts on the face and extends downhill to the body, legs, and arms; once the rash goes to the body, it may disappear from the face.
• A stuffy or runny nose
• Eyes that be red or inflamed
• Joints that hurt
• Lymph nodes swollen

A health practitioner will need to request the tests to confirm the diagnosis because numerous illnesses can cause identical symptoms.

IgM and IgG tests may be ordered for a newborn if the mother was diagnosed with rubella during pregnancy and/or if the newborn is born with congenital rubella syndrome-related birth abnormalities such as hearing loss, heart defects, or clouded lens of the eyes.

Because antibodies to rubella take time to form after infection, the tests may be repeated after day 5 of sickness onset and 7-21 days following the initial samples to examine if antibody levels have become detectable and to see if they are rising or dropping over time.

This test is still necessary for women in some states as part of the blood testing required to acquire a marriage license.

What does a Rubella Antibody IgG blood test check for?

The rubella test detects antibodies in the blood that form as a result of a rubella infection or immunization. Rubella testing can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

• Ascertain that you are protected against the rubella virus.
• Find out if you've had an infection recently or in the past.
• Determine who has not been exposed to the virus and who has not received a vaccine.
• Check to see if all pregnant women and those planning to get pregnant have enough rubella antibodies to prevent infection.

Rubella is a viral infection that normally causes a slight fever and rash that lasts two to three days. The infection normally goes away on its own. Rubella, on the other hand, can cause major difficulties in the developing infant if a pregnant woman acquires it for the first time during the first three months of her pregnancy.

A rubella test may be ordered for anyone, pregnant or not, who is experiencing symptoms that a doctor believes are caused by a rubella infection. It may also be ordered for a newborn who is suspected of contracting rubella during pregnancy or who has congenital birth abnormalities that a doctor suspects are caused by the illness.

IgM and IgG antibodies are the two types of rubella antibodies that lab tests can detect:

The IgM rubella antibody is the first to develop in the blood following exposure. Except in an infected infant, where it may be observed for several months to a year, the level of this protein rises and peaks in the blood within about 7 to 10 days after infection and then tapers off over the next few weeks.

The IgG rubella antibody takes a little longer to surface than the IgM, but once it does, it stays in the bloodstream for the rest of the patient's life, protecting them from re-infection. IgM rubella antibodies in the blood indicate a recent infection, whereas IgG antibodies can indicate a current or past rubella infection, or that a rubella vaccine was given and is giving appropriate protection.

The IgM rubella test is the gold standard for a fast rubella laboratory diagnosis. The presence of an increase in IgG rubella in blood samples taken when a person is sick and later as they recover can be used to confirm infection. Antibody testing differ between laboratories, and the state health agency can advise on available laboratory services and recommended tests.

Sample Ulta Lab Tests view of Rubella IgG Antibody Results

Sample Quest Result Report view of Rubella IgG Antibody Results

Lab tests often ordered with a Rubella Antibody IgG test:

When a Rubella IgG Antibody test is ordered, it's often part of a broader evaluation of immune status and prenatal health. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

1. Rubella IgM Antibody Test:

   • Purpose: To detect a recent or ongoing rubella infection.
   • Why Is It Ordered: IgM antibodies are produced first in response to a rubella infection, so this test can help diagnose a current or recent infection, which is critical in pregnancy.

2. Complete Blood Count (CBC):

   • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess general health and rule out other conditions that might mimic rubella symptoms or affect pregnancy.

3. Toxoplasmosis Antibody Tests (IgG and IgM):

   • Purpose: To check for immunity or recent infection with Toxoplasma gondii, which can cause serious complications during pregnancy.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the risk of fetal infection, as part of routine prenatal screening or if there are specific risk factors or symptoms.

4. Cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG and IgM Tests:

   • Purpose: To determine past exposure to or recent infection with CMV, a common virus that can be dangerous during pregnancy.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess the risk of congenital CMV infection, which can cause birth defects and developmental problems.

5. Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg):

   • Purpose: To screen for hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To prevent mother-to-child transmission of HBV during childbirth.

6. Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) Antibody Test (IgG and IgM):

   • Purpose: To assess immunity or infection with the virus that causes chickenpox and shingles.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To determine immunity status, especially in pregnant women who lack a history of chickenpox or vaccination, as VZV can be harmful to the fetus.

7. Syphilis Screening:

   • Purpose: To screen for syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To prevent congenital syphilis, which can cause severe disability or death in newborns.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Rubella IgG Antibody test, provide a comprehensive assessment of a woman’s immune status and infectious disease risks during pregnancy. They are crucial for ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s medical history, vaccination status, and potential exposure risks.

Conditions where a Rubella IgG Antibody test is recommended:

• Pregnancy: Rubella infection during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects (congenital rubella syndrome). Testing pregnant women for rubella immunity helps guide vaccination recommendations.
• Preconception Planning: Individuals planning to become pregnant may be tested to ensure they are immune to rubella before conception.
• Healthcare Workers: Healthcare workers, especially those working in obstetric and neonatal units, are often tested to ensure immunity and prevent the spread of rubella to vulnerable populations.

How does my health care provider use a Rubella Antibody IgG test?

Antibody tests for Rubella can be used to:

• Confirm if a person is virus-free due to previous infections or vaccinations.
• Diagnosis of a rubella outbreak
• In order to protect the public's health, epidemics must be detected, monitored, and tracked.

Antibody analysis

Antibody testing can be used to confirm immunity, identify a current infection, or follow outbreaks. Antibodies to the rubella viruses are viral-specific proteins produced by the immune system in response to infection with the virus or immunization. IgM and IgG antibodies are the two types of antibodies generated. IgM antibodies are the first to emerge in the blood after exposure or immunization. IgM antibody levels rise over several days to a peak, then gradually decline over the next few weeks. IgG antibodies take a little longer to develop, but once they do, they remain positive for the rest of your life, protecting you from re-infection. By comparing the levels of antibody in two blood samples taken weeks apart, it is sometimes possible to distinguish between an active and past infection.

What do my Rubella Antibody IgG test results mean?

When IgM antibodies to rubella are present in someone who hasn't been vaccinated recently, it's likely that they have a current rubella infection. When both IgM and IgG antibodies are present, or there is a fourfold increase in concentrations between acute and convalescent IgG antibody testing, it is likely that the person is now infected or has recently been infected with rubella.

When a person who has been vaccinated and/or is not currently ill possesses rubella IgG antibodies, that individual is protected from infection. A person is not deemed immune to the virus if they do not have rubella IgG antibodies. This could be due to the fact that the person hasn't been exposed to the virus, the IgG hasn't had enough time to mature, or the person doesn't have a typical antibody response.

Most Common Questions About the Rubella IgG Antibody test:

Clinical Applications and Use Cases

Why is the Rubella IgG Antibody test commonly performed during pregnancy?

The Rubella IgG Antibody test is often performed during pregnancy to determine if the mother has immunity to rubella (German measles). Immunity to rubella is crucial, as infection during pregnancy can lead to congenital rubella syndrome, causing severe birth defects or stillbirth. The presence of IgG antibodies indicates immunity, either from previous vaccination or natural infection.

Can the Rubella IgG Antibody test be used to confirm a rubella infection?

Yes, the Rubella IgG Antibody test can be used to confirm a rubella infection, especially when acute symptoms are present. A significant increase in IgG levels in samples taken a few weeks apart may indicate a recent infection.

Interpretation of Test Results

What do positive and negative results mean in the Rubella IgG Antibody test?

A positive result in the Rubella IgG Antibody test indicates the presence of antibodies against rubella, signifying immunity. A negative result means the absence of these antibodies, indicating no immunity and potential vulnerability to rubella infection.

How is the Rubella IgG Antibody test interpreted in the context of vaccination?

The Rubella IgG Antibody test helps determine the immunity status post-vaccination. A positive result reflects successful immunization, while a negative result might indicate the need for a booster dose of the vaccine.

Relationship with Other Medical Conditions

How is the Rubella IgG Antibody test utilized in cases of suspected congenital rubella syndrome?

The Rubella IgG Antibody test can be performed on newborns suspected of congenital rubella syndrome. The detection of rubella-specific IgG antibodies in the infant that cannot be attributed to maternal antibodies may confirm the diagnosis.

Can the Rubella IgG Antibody test be used in immunocompromised individuals?

The Rubella IgG Antibody test can be performed in immunocompromised individuals to assess their immunity status. It's essential for those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy or with conditions that may affect the immune response, as they may be at higher risk for rubella-related complications.

Diagnostic Procedures and Methodology

How does the Rubella IgG Antibody test differ from the Rubella IgM Antibody test?

While the Rubella IgG Antibody test detects antibodies associated with immunity and previous exposure, the Rubella IgM Antibody test identifies acute infection. IgM antibodies appear early in an infection, while IgG antibodies may remain lifelong, reflecting immunity.

What are the possible reasons for equivocal results in the Rubella IgG Antibody test?

Equivocal results in the Rubella IgG Antibody test might arise from technical issues, recent vaccination, or the early stages of acquiring natural immunity. In such cases, a repeat test or additional testing may be necessary for accurate interpretation.

Public Health and Epidemiology

How does the Rubella IgG Antibody test contribute to public health monitoring?

The Rubella IgG Antibody test plays a vital role in public health by monitoring immunity levels within a population. It helps in assessing the success of vaccination programs and understanding the need for interventions to prevent outbreaks, particularly in vulnerable groups like pregnant women.

Can the Rubella IgG Antibody test be used in travel medicine?

Yes, the Rubella IgG Antibody test is often used in travel medicine to assess the immunity status of travelers to areas where rubella might be endemic. It assists in making informed vaccination decisions to protect individuals from potential exposure.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.