Definition

Rubeola, commonly known as measles, is a viral infection that infects cells located in the lungs and the throat. This infection is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted through coughing, sneezing, or touching a virus-contaminated surface and subsequently contacting the mouth, nose, or eyes. Although the infection typically subsides within a few days, there are rare instances in which it can lead to severe complications. Through vaccination, it can be prevented. 

This article will focus on the procedure for detecting antibodies in circulation. Antibody testing identifies the antibodies that the immune system produces in response to a vaccination or measles infection. We can use this testing to determine an individual's immunity status, pinpoint an active case, or track outbreaks.

The antibodies produced in response to measles virus fall into two categories:

• IgM, or immunoglobulin M, is the initial form of antibody that is generated in response to measles vaccination or infection. Over the course of the following weeks, the concentration of IgM antibodies exhibits a gradual increase over a span of several days, reaches its highest point, and gradually decreases.
• IgG, or immunoglobulin G, is synthesized at a later stage, but once it forms, it persists in the body indefinitely, providing lifelong protection against subsequent reinfections. 

Occasionally, two blood samples are obtained with a significant time gap between them (acute and convalescent samples), and the concentration of antibodies is assessed and compared. This approach may aid in distinguishing between a current infection and a previous infection.

We also have an article on measles which you can read here: Measles - Definition, Causes and Risk Factors.

Indication

When you exhibit classic measles symptoms or if you have recently come into contact with infected people and are experiencing symptoms that might possibly be caused by measles, your doctor might suggest a measles test that measures IgM and IgG antibodies.

The clinical symptoms of measles often occur within a span of 7–18 days following the infection and typically encompass one or more of the following symptoms:

• A distinctive skin lesion that typically occurs on the face and gradually expands to the torso and lower extremities
• Elevated body temperature
• Dry cough
• The eyes could be watery, red, and irritated
• Photosensitivity, or being sensitive to light
• Rhinorrhea
• Sore throat
• Little white patches within the oral cavity

Your immune system produces IgM antibodies when the measles virus is active and currently spreading in your body. The presence of IgM antibodies may indicate that you are currently infected with measles or that the measles infection is in an acute phase.

In cases where multiple individuals may have come into contact with people infected with measles and they are either not vaccinated or exhibiting the aforementioned symptoms of measles, measles antibody tests could also be requested, especially if a measles outbreak within the region is suspected or verified. The tests facilitate the identification of new and current measles cases, enabling public health officials to implement measures aimed at slowing and stopping the transmission of the disease.

Contraindication

There are no individuals for whom it is advised against to check their serum measles IgM level; everyone is eligible to undergo blood tests for monitoring the levels of measles IgM in their bodies.

Preparations Prior to Test

No specific preparations are required before you take this test. It is important that you inform your physician about the medicines or supplements that you are currently using. Depending on the instructions of your physician, you may or may not be required to discontinue any of these medications prior to the test.

Test Procedures

A healthcare professional will extract a blood sample from a vein, usually in your arm, using a tiny needle. Once the needle is placed, a little sample of blood will be drawn into a test tube. You may experience a slight stinging sensation when the needle is inserted or removed.

In the case of taking a sample from infants, the blood sample can also be obtained from the capillary blood in the heel.

Normal and Abnormal Values

The reference value of this test is negative, and it is relevant to individuals of all age groups. In unvaccinated individuals, if they test positive for the measles IgM antibody test, it could be presumed that they are currently infected with measles.

Results and Suggestions (Follow-Up Tests)

If measles IgM antibodies are found in the body, whether or not the IgG antibodies are present, it may provide clinical support for the diagnosis of a recent or acute measles infection.

If measles IgM antibodies are not found in the sample, it could indicate that the patient is not currently experiencing an acute measles infection. Nevertheless, during the initial stages of the disease, tests may yield negative results for measles IgM antibodies, and it is crucial to interpret the test results in conjunction with other findings.

This table summarizes the results of measles antibody tests:

Consult to The Right Doctor

Measles is typically diagnosed solely based on symptoms and clinical findings. Measles IgM antibody test is advised to be conducted on suspected patients with measles. The detection of this antibody in blood samples could indicate that the individual is recently infected with measles, although it should not be relied upon as a sole diagnostic tool for measles infection.

For the best explanation of your test results, consult your physician or internist. The process of interpreting the test requires careful consideration of both the test results and one's overall health, risk factors, and symptoms.

Want to know more information about laboratory, radiology and other examination results? Click here!