Clam IgG

The serum Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test is a vital diagnostic tool for detecting and quantifying CMV DNA in serum or plasma. It plays a crucial role in diagnosing active CMV infections, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating the effectiveness of antiviral treatments. CMV, a common virus from the herpes family, often remains dormant after initial infection but can reactivate, posing significant risks to individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients, and pregnant women. The test involves collecting a blood sample, processing it to extract CMV DNA, and using real-time quantitative PCR to detect and measure the viral load. Results guide clinical decisions, with interpretations ranging from undetected to high-level infections. The test's clinical utility is significant in managing CMV-related health risks, particularly in vulnerable populations, by enabling early detection and timely intervention to prevent severe complications.

Price of test:£34

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £34

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The serum CMV PCR test is pivotal in diagnosing and managing CMV infections. It detects and quantifies CMV DNA in serum, crucial for:

- Diagnosing active infections
- Monitoring disease progression
- Assessing antiviral therapy effectiveness

Specimen Collection:

- Blood drawn from a vein
- Serum separated via centrifugation
- Stored at 2 to 8°C or frozen at -20°C

Methodology:

- DNA extraction and amplification
- Real-time detection with fluorescent probes

Interpretation:

- Undetected: No current infection
- <35 IU/mL: Low-level infection
- >10,000,000 IU/mL: High-level infection

This test is essential for transplant patients, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

Who Should Get Tested

The Clam IgG test is a diagnostic tool used to assess immunologic sensitization to clam allergens. It is particularly useful in evaluating food-related complaints or suspected food allergies. However, the presence of IgG antibodies does not confirm a food allergy. Physicians should order this test, understanding its limitations and interpreting results appropriately. Key considerations include:

- Specimen Requirements: Serum sample, preferably 0.5 mL, refrigerated for stability.
- Turnaround Time: 2 to 4 business days.
- Interpretation: Values <2.0 mcg/mL indicate absent allergen-specific IgG antibodies. Higher values suggest sensitization.

This test should be used alongside other diagnostic tools for comprehensive evaluation.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding test results is crucial for managing CMV infections effectively. The serum CMV PCR test detects and quantifies CMV DNA, providing insights into infection status. Key interpretations include:

- Undetected: No CMV DNA, suggesting no current infection.
- <35 IU/mL: Low-level infection or reactivation, with limited quantification.
- >10,000,000 IU/mL: High-level infection, indicating severe reactivation.

Quantitative values in IU/mL and log IU/mL help monitor disease progression and treatment response. Changes over 0.5 log IU/mL are significant, guiding clinical decisions for transplant patients, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

Price of test:£34

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £34

AI-Powered Insights and Expert Validation

Advanced AI Interpretation

Diagu's AI system represents a breakthrough in medical test analysis, employing state-of-the-art algorithms meticulously trained on a vast spectrum of authoritative medical literature and data. This system intricately analyses laboratory test results, extracting nuanced insights that might elude conventional methods. Our AI delves into complex interrelations between various health markers, offering a comprehensive understanding that supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. The foundation of our AI's analytical prowess lies in its extensive training, encompassing data from globally recognised medical journals, trusted healthcare databases, and breakthrough scientific studies. This ensures that every analysis is grounded in the latest and most comprehensive medical knowledge.

Expert Doctor Confirmation

While our AI provides deep analytical insights, the human touch remains indispensable. Every AI-generated interpretation is meticulously reviewed by experienced medical professionals, ensuring a harmonious blend of advanced technology and expert clinical judgment. This dual-layer approach guarantees that the insights provided are not only technologically sophisticated but also clinically relevant. Our medical experts ensure that the AI's interpretations align with current medical standards and practices, adding a layer of validation that only seasoned healthcare professionals can provide. This process reinforces the reliability of the test results, offering peace of mind to both patients and healthcare providers.

Language Model and Trusted Sources

At the core of Diagu's AI system is an advanced language model, engineered to transform complex medical data into clear, comprehensible, and informative descriptions. This model is adept at articulating detailed test analyses in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and patients. The model's development involved the meticulous processing of high-quality sources, including reputable medical websites, renowned medical textbooks, and peer-reviewed research papers. This ensures that the language used in test descriptions is not only accurate and informative but also up-to-date with the latest medical findings and trends. By leveraging this rich tapestry of trusted sources, our AI system provides a deeper understanding of each test, fostering informed decision-making and enhanced patient care.

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