From the Guidelines
The result of 8.2 for Mumps Virus IgG antibodies indicates immunity to mumps, suggesting that you have developed long-term protection against the virus, either from previous infection or vaccination, as indicated by the presence of antimumps IgG-class antibodies 1. This is a positive result, showing that you have developed antibodies against the mumps virus.
- The presence of IgG antibodies represents long-term immunity, unlike IgM antibodies which would indicate a recent or current infection 1.
- This immunity is important because mumps can cause complications such as orchitis (testicular inflammation), meningitis, or pancreatitis.
- No action is required as you are protected against mumps infection, but if you're concerned about your vaccination status for other diseases, consider discussing with your healthcare provider to ensure you're up to date on all recommended immunizations 1.
- For most adults, mumps immunity is part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine, which is typically given in childhood, and has a protective rate of approximately 88% following administration of the 2 doses 1.
From the Research
Mumps Virus Antibody (IgG) Results
- The result of 8.2 for Mumps Virus Ab (IgG) indicates the presence of IgG antibodies against the mumps virus in the patient's blood 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- IgG antibodies are typically measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) 2, which may not always correlate with neutralizing antibody titers 2.
- The presence of IgG antibodies suggests that the patient has been exposed to the mumps virus in the past, either through infection or vaccination 3, 4, 5.
Interpretation of Results
- A study published in 2014 found that differences in antibody response to individual mumps proteins could explain the lack of correlation among various serologic tests 2.
- Another study published in 2016 found that mumps virus IgG antibody avidity testing could help distinguish between primary and secondary vaccine failure in vaccinated individuals 3.
- The results of the IgG antibody test should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other laboratory tests, such as IgM and IgA antibody tests 3, 4, 5.
Clinical Significance
- The presence of IgG antibodies against the mumps virus does not necessarily indicate immunity to the virus 3, 4, 5.
- A study published in 2014 found that symptomatic and asymptomatic mumps virus infections in vaccinated persons can be identified by retrospective assessment of mumps-specific IgG antibodies in blood samples 5.
- The results of the IgG antibody test can be used to assess infection and immunity in vaccinated individuals, but should be interpreted with caution and in conjunction with other clinical and laboratory data 3, 4, 5, 6.