Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus from the herpes family. Human Cytomegalovirus (hCMV), also known as human herpesvirus-5 (HHV-5), is the species that affects humans. hCMV is present is 60 – 70% of adults in developed countries and close to 100% of adults in developing countries. It is apparent that the virus is not limited to any particular groups or geographical locations. Congenital hCMV is the most common infectious cause of deafness, learning disabilities, and mental retardation in children; and in adults it can lead to increased morbidity and mortality. Statistically, the odds that you are infected by hCMV are greater than the odds you are virus free. All of this begs the question, why isn’t CMV a popular topic of discussion?

The reason is the nature of the virus. hCMV lies dormant in individuals for the majority of their lives. It mainly manifests in newborns, elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. It is chiefly a concern when performing certain medical procedures, like organ or bone marrow transplants. Some may never experience any negative effects from a CMV infection. However, if you are at risk it is crucial to have your CMV infection quickly and accurately detected.

The CMV- Tetramer Test kit is designed for use in a clinical lab setting to quantitatively determine and individuals level of CMV specific CD8+ t-cells. It works on whole blood samples and is suitable for the four most common subtypes of hCMV. Combined with a PCR based CMV viral count, the CMV Tetramer Test provides a complete picture of CMV infection and immune response. This all inclusive information is vital to medical practitioners in that it allows for well-rounded decision making and/or diagnosis.

For more information regarding the CMV-Tetramer Test kit visit our immunodiagnostic kit webpage at www.allelebiotech.com/immunodiagnostic-kits.