Measles

Test Name	Measles
Used For	Determining acute-phase infection with measles (rubeola) virus. As an aid in identifying nonimmune individuals
Method	ImmunoenzymaticAssay
Aliases	Rubeola, Measles IgG,
Specimen Type	Serum (Yellow)
Volume of sample	>0.25ml
Refrigerated stability	7 days
Interfering substances	Haemolysis, lipaemia
Clinical Information	Measles (rubeola) virus is a member of the family paramyxoviridae, which also includes mumps, respiratory syncytial virus, and parainfluenza viruses. Clinical infection with measles virus is characterised by a prodromal phase of high fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, malaise, and Koplik's spots on the buccal mucosa. An erythematous rash then develops behind the ears and over the forehead, spreading to the trunk. Measles virus is highly contagious; pregnant women, immuno-compromised, and nutritionally deficient individuals are at particularly high risk for serious complications of pneumonia and central nervous system involvement.
Interpretation	IgG Positive: A positive result indicates previous exposure to rubeola and immunity. IgG Negative: A negative result indicates the absence of prior exposure to rubeola or nonimmunity. IgG Equivocal: An individual with an equivocal result should have a new serum specimen tested.
Turnaround	2h
Retention Time	7 days
References	Mayo Clinic Laboratories
	Lab Tests On Line

County Pathology Ltd