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Published on: July 6, 2013
Cytomegalovirus antibody in the elderly
L A Weymouth1, I H Gomolin, T Brennan
1Department of Pathology, Hartford Hospital, Conn.
Intervirology
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) immunoglobulin M (IgM) presence is often linked to recent infection. However, in elderly individuals, CMV IgM detection may not indicate active infection and requires cautious interpretation.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Cytomegalovirus (CMV) specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) is typically a marker for acute or recent infection.
- Age-related changes in the immune system may affect the interpretation of serological markers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and significance of CMV-specific IgM in an elderly population compared to younger adults.
- To determine if CMV IgM positivity in the elderly correlates with active infection.
Main Methods:
- Sera from 110 elderly individuals (61-100 years) and 87 younger individuals (16-47 years) were tested for CMV IgM.
- Clinical symptoms and viral cultures (urine) were assessed in the elderly cohort.
Main Results:
- CMV IgM prevalence was significantly higher in the elderly group (30%) compared to the younger group (6%).
- None of the elderly individuals with positive CMV IgM results were symptomatic.
- Urine viral cultures were negative for CMV in 72 elderly participants.
Conclusions:
- The presence of CMV-specific IgM in elderly individuals should be interpreted with caution.
- Elevated CMV IgM levels in the elderly may not necessarily indicate a current or recent CMV infection.
