Viral Tests

Viral Antibody Test, Viral Antigen Detection Test, Viral Culture

Why It Is Done

A viral test is done to:

  • Find a viral infection that is causing symptoms.
  • Check a person after exposure to a virus. For example, a viral test may be done after a health professional is accidentally stuck with a needle to see if he or she became infected with the virus.
  • Find a viral infection in a potential blood donor to prevent the donation of infected blood.
  • Find a viral infection in an organ to be transplanted.
  • Test a pregnant woman who has a high risk of passing a serious viral infection on to her baby.
  • Check if a person has immunity to a specific virus.

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Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Last Updated: June 12, 2008
Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease

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Topic Contents
 Test Overview
Arrow PointerWhy It Is Done
 How To Prepare
 How It Is Done
 How It Feels
 Risks
 Results
 What Affects the Test
 What To Think About
 References
 Credits