Mumps Serology Test: Diagnosis, Immunity & Antibody Detection
Mumps Serology Test
Synonyms
Mumps Antibodies
Test Commonly Includes
Detection of antibodies indicating mumps virus infection or post-vaccination immunity.
Specimen
Type: Serum
Container: Red top tube
Sampling Time
Acute and convalescent serum samples drawn 10–14 days apart are recommended for diagnosis.
Reference Range
- Positive IgM (IFA) → Suggestive of active infection
- Hemagglutination titer rise → Indicates mumps or parainfluenza infection
- Positive neutralization or hemolysis-in-gel test → Indicates immunity
- Fourfold rise in complement fixation (CF) titers → Indicates recent mumps infection
Use
To support the diagnosis of mumps infection or to confirm immunity due to prior infection or vaccination.
Limitations
Many tests are not highly specific for mumps virus and may cross-react with other paramyxoviruses.
Methodology
Complement fixation (CF), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA), hemagglutination inhibition (HAI), hemolysis-in-gel, virus neutralization.
Additional Information
Mumps is caused by a paramyxovirus exclusive to humans. It can result in encephalitis, meningitis, and inflammation of various organs. The IgM/IgG ratio is the most effective early diagnostic tool. Serology confirms acute illness or established immunity. Tissue culture neutralization is the gold standard for confirming protective immunity.
References
- Benito RJ et al. J Infect Dis. 1987.
- Black FL, Manual of Clinical Laboratory Immunology, 4th ed.
- Condorelli F & Ziegler T, J Clin Microbiol, 1993.
- Costello MJ et al., Lab Med. 1993.
- Harmsen T et al., J Clin Microbiol, 1992.
- Jacobs et al., Laboratory Test Handbook, Lexi-Comp Inc, 1994.
