Varicella Test Explained: Types, Procedure, Results & Cost
Medically reviewed by Aster Labs
The varicella test, also called the chickenpox test, is conducted to assess antibody levels against the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV). This virus is the major cause of diseases like shingles and chickenpox. The amount of VZV-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) in your blood is measured by the varicella blood test. Although symptoms like fever and itchy rash are frequently used to diagnose the illness, laboratory testing becomes crucial in some circumstances. A Varicella test helps determine whether an individual has an ongoing infection, immunity from a prior infection or vaccine, or complications caused by the virus.
Knowing the objective of the Varicella test will help you make well-informed healthcare decisions, regardless of whether you're dealing with atypical symptoms, planning a pregnancy, working in the medical field, or have met someone who has chickenpox.
What exactly is Varicella Test?
In simple words, Varicella Test is one method of diagnosing and detecting the overall presence of the varicella- zoster virus. Upon conducting this test, doctors can determine the following things:
To determine active chickenpox infection
To determine immunity due to previous infection or vaccination
Needs preventive treatment after exposure to the virus
Different Types of Varicella Test
There are different types of varicella tests conducted by a doctor depending on the symptoms and the results needed. Some of these are-
Varicella IgG Antibody Test
The Varicella IgG Antibody Test is conducted to check if your body has long-term immunity against the virus. Some of the reasons to conduct are-
To ensure any sign of previous chickenpox infection
Healthcare professionals to check for infection
Candidates with organ transplant
Varicella IgM Antibody Test
This test is conducted to detect antibodies produced after recent infection in the body. If the patient starts developing symptoms, the single IgM test isn't reliable compared to a molecular test.
PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) Test
To detect active Varicella infection, PCR is the most reliable test. It helps to identify:
Scab samples
Tissue samples
Cerebrospinal fluid (in rare neurological cases)
Direct Fluorescent Antibody (DFA) Test
DFA testing detects viral proteins from skin lesion samples, albeit it is now less frequently employed. Because PCR has greater sensitivity and accuracy, many labs now favor it.
Understanding the Procedure of Varicella Test
There are two ways, this test is performed. These are-
Blood Test
For testing for IgG and IgM antibodies:
A medical practitioner cleans the skin.
A medical practitioner uses a vein in your arm to draw a tiny sample of blood.
The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
Skin Lesion Sample
To Conduct PCR testing:
A lab expert uses new blister to gather fluid or cells.
A sterile container is used to hold the sample.
Molecular methods are used to analyze it.
Understanding Varicella Test Result
Once the test is conducted and the result is available, the doctor checks the components to determine the overall infection status. The Varicella Zoster IgG test determines whether the blood contains immunoglobulin (IgG) antibodies specific to the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV). The immune system produces IgG antibodies in response to a vaccination or infection.
The normal range of Varicella IgG test is 135.00-165.99, the low range is <135.00, and the high range is ≥165.00.
Things to Consider for Normal Varicella IgG Test Result
If the result falls in the high or low range, you can bring it into the normal range by following certain steps. These are-
Maintaining Balanced Diet: A balanced diet emphasizes entire foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. Limit sugar-filled beverages, processed foods, and high levels of harmful, saturated fats.
Regular Exercise: Try to get in at least 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity or 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
Stress Management: To reduce stress, try deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.
Varicella Test Cost in India
The Varicella test cost in India may vary by city and type. The average cost of a varicella test is around Rs 1000 to Rs 1500/-.
Who should undergo the Varicella Test?
Certain individuals should undergo this test. These are-
Those who have developed a blister-like rash without a confirmed diagnosis
Those exposed to someone with chickenpox
Planning for pregnancy, but unsure about immunity
Work in hospitals or healthcare facilities
Is the result of the Varicella test accurate?
The test results are accurate if done properly and the right preparation steps are followed.
PCR: Highest accuracy
IgG: Helps to determine immunity
IgM: Useful but less reliable if done solo
Conclusion
To diagnose chickenpox and shingles and verify immunization against the Varicella-Zoster virus, a Varicella test plays an important role. Connect with your healthcare provider when you get exposed to chickenpox or any such disease and undergo the Varicella test. The test result is useful during pregnancy or employment. Early testing guarantees timely care and peace of mind.
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