From the Guidelines
The presence of VZV antibodies with an IgG level of 2.66 and an Ig level of 1.76 indicates that you have immunity to chickenpox and shingles, suggesting adequate protection against future VZV infections. This immunity could have developed either from a previous chickenpox infection or from vaccination against VZV. The IgG value of 2.66 is typically considered positive, suggesting adequate protection against future VZV infections, as supported by the guidelines for the management of persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus, which notes that evidence of immunity to varicella includes laboratory evidence of immunity 1. The VZV antibody level of 1.76 also confirms this immunity.
Key Points to Consider
- No specific treatment or medication is needed as these results are indicative of protection rather than active infection.
- This immunity is generally long-lasting, though in some cases immunity can wane over time, particularly in older adults, which is why a shingles vaccine (Shingrix) is recommended for adults over 50 regardless of previous infection history, as noted in the prevention of varicella recommendations 1.
- If you're concerned about your specific immunity status, consulting with your healthcare provider would be appropriate, as laboratory reference ranges can vary between testing facilities.
Important Considerations
- The guidelines for the management of persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus recommend varicella vaccination for HIV-infected persons with a CD4 cell count ≥200 cells/mm3 who do not have evidence of immunity to varicella 1.
- VariZIG is indicated for persons without evidence of immunity who have contraindications to the vaccine and who are at risk of developing severe disease or complications, and can be obtained under a treatment investigational new drugs 1.
From the Research
Interpretation of VZV Antibody Results
- The presence of VZV antibodies indicates that an individual has been exposed to the varicella-zoster virus, either through infection or vaccination 2, 3.
- The levels of IgG and IgM antibodies can provide information about the immune response to VZV. IgG antibodies are typically associated with long-term immunity, while IgM antibodies are associated with a recent or acute infection 4.
- In this case, the individual has VZV antibodies with an IgG level of 2.66, which suggests that they have developed immunity to VZV. The IgM level is not provided, but the presence of IgG antibodies indicates that the individual is not currently infected with VZV 5.
- The level of 1.76 for VZV antibodies is not specifically defined in the provided studies, but it can be inferred that this level is indicative of some level of immunity to VZV. However, the exact interpretation of this level would depend on the specific assay used and the reference range established by the laboratory performing the test 6.
Immunity to Varicella-Zoster Virus
- The presence of VZV antibodies, particularly IgG antibodies, indicates that an individual has developed some level of immunity to VZV 2, 3.
- However, it is essential to note that immunity to VZV is not always complete, and individuals can still develop shingles (herpes zoster) even if they have antibodies to VZV 3, 5.
- The level of immunity to VZV can wane over time, particularly in older adults, which can increase the risk of developing shingles 3, 5.
Clinical Implications
- The results of VZV antibody tests can be used to inform clinical decisions, such as the need for vaccination or treatment with antiviral medications 6.
- Individuals with low or undetectable levels of VZV antibodies may be at increased risk of developing severe VZV infections, such as disseminated disease or central nervous system complications 3, 5.
- In contrast, individuals with high levels of VZV antibodies, such as those who have received vaccination or have had previous infection, may be at lower risk of developing severe VZV infections 2, 3.