Rubella IgM Antibodies

The Rubella IgM antibodies test is a diagnostic test for detecting Rubella in an individual. Rubella is a viral infection that is contagious in nature. The condition is synonymous with a distinctive red rash on the body. Usually, this condition poses no severe threat on its own. However, it is fatal for pregnant women and may lead to a host of congenital disabilities in the child.

This viral infection is uncommon in many parts of the world due to the presence of a measles-mumps-rubella vaccine. It is standard for children in multiple countries. However, it might be passed from an unvaccinated mother to a child.

Since it is contagious in nature, Rubella commonly spreads through the coughing or sneezing of an infected person. In fact, a patient who has recently contracted the infection is contagious for about a week before the rash appears. He is also infectious for the same period after the rash disappears. Due to this, it may not be easy to gauge when the infection struck.

The Rubella IgM antibody test solves this problem by testing for IgM antibodies in the blood that may point toward Rubella. When the immune system recognises a foreign particle as a threat, it releases antibodies to neutralise this threat. The IgM antibodies are the first ones released and last for about one to two weeks. Hence, detecting these antibodies in the blood may help detect a recent Rubella infection.

It is a standard blood test in which the clinical lab assistant draws blood from the vein in the arm, usually at the bend of the elbow. The technician sends this blood for further analysis to determine if the blood consists of IgM antibodies. To ensure that the test poses no side effects, it is vital to be upfront about previous and existing medication with the doctor.

If the results show low IgM antibodies in the blood, it is possible that the patient does not have the Rubella infection. However, high IgM antibodies may require further testing to confirm the diagnosis of the viral infection.

Apollo 24/7 offers a comprehensive Rubella IgM antibodies test to confirm the diagnosis of Rubella infection. Some of the symptoms that may occur during this infection are:

• A low-grade fever
• Cough
• Headache
• Swollen and enlarged lymph nodes
• General discomfort
• Mild pink eye 
• Runny nose

If one or more of these symptoms occur, along with a characteristic rash, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. This is mainly for pregnant women since Rubella infections may target the foetus and lead to congenital disabilities.