Varicella (Chicken Pox) IgG Antibody Titer Test

The Varicella (Chicken Pox) IgG Antibody Titer Test test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) causes chicken pox and when reactivated, potentially decades later, causes shingles. Twenty percent of adults will develop shingles, a rash or blister of the skin that may cause severe pain. Varicella-Zoster IgG, EIA reliably measures immunity due to previous infection, but is unsuitable for detection of post-vaccination immune status.

The Varicella Zoster Virus Antibodies, IgG test is typically done to check for immunity to the virus which causes chickenpox.  Varicella Zoster Virus is a member of the Herpes Virus family.  This test measures the level of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to the virus.  Results provide a numerical value for the antibody level which can be compared to a reference interval to determine immune status.  IgG antibodies are typically detectable a few weeks after the initial infection.  In the United States, many people are vaccinated against Varicella when they are young.  In most cases those who contract the virus and recover develop a natural immunity which protects them from catching it again. 

The most common condition which results from infection with Varicella is Chickenpox.  The infection causes an outbreak of an itchy rash and the development of small fluid-filled blisters.  During the primary infection, chickenpox is highly contagious and spread through coughing, sneezing or touching fluid from the blisters.  Most people recover without treatment and the virus remains latent in their system.  There is a possibility for the virus to reactivate later in life, especially in those with weakened immune systems.  This can cause shingles, a condition characterized by a painful burning or itching sensation on one or more areas of the body.  Shingles typically clear up after a few weeks as the virus becomes latent again.

The Varicella IgG Antibody Titer is usually ordered when someone is required to show proof of immune status for work or school.  It may also be done for organ transplant patients or pregnant women.

The Varicella Titer is also available as part of our Immunity Panel which includes other common titer tests.


Also known as: Chicken Pox, Herpes Zoster, Shingles, VaricellaZoster Virus Antibody IgG

Varicella Zoster Virus
