Respiratory syncytial virus antibodies

How the Test is Performed:
Blood is drawn from a vein ( venipuncture ), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and a tourniquet (an elastic band) or blood pressure cuff is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the tourniquet to distend (fill with blood). A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the tourniquet is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding .


How to Prepare:
No restrictions of food or fluid are required for this test.

If your child is to have this test performed it may be helpful to explain how the test will feel, and even practice or demonstrate on a doll. The more familiar your child is with what will happen to them, and the purpose for the procedure, the less anxiety they will feel.

How it Feels:
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing .

Risks:
Risks associated with venipuncture are slight:
  • excessive bleeding
  • fainting or feeling lightheaded
  • hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
  • infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
  • multiple punctures to locate veins



Why this Test is Performed:
Respiratory syncytial virus is responsible for more than 50% of all bronchiolitis , and up to 80% during epidemics. It usually occurs in affected infants during the first six months of life, but may occur at any age.

This test detects the body's response to RSV , not the virus itself. If the body has produced antibodies against RSV, either a past or recent infection is indicated.

Normal Values:
Normal findings indicate that you or your child have no antibodies against RSV , and therefore have not been infected with the virus.

Abnormal Results:
If there are antibodies against RSV , then past or recent RSV infection is indicated.

Cost:
Information not available.

Special Considerations:
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.