Respiratory syncytial virus antibodies

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Blood test

RSV antibody test; RSV serology

Risks associated with having blood drawn are mild:

• 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

This test is of limited value because it does not detect RSV directly. It is not recommended in infants because maternal antibodies may be detected, and it is not useful in adults as most people will have antibodies due to prior infection.

Review Date: 06/09/2005
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.