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Rubella IgG and IgM antibodies

TORCH · also called German measles antibodies

What it measures

Measures antibodies to rubella virus. IgG shows immunity from vaccination or past infection; IgM suggests recent infection, which in early pregnancy can cause congenital rubella syndrome.

Specimen and preparation

Specimen: Serum
Tube: Gold top

Reference range

Group	Range
IgG immune	≥ 10 IU/mL
IgM	Negative

Reference ranges differ between laboratories, methods and populations. Always use the range printed on your own lab report.

Causes of high values

IgG ≥ 10 IU/mL: immune
IgM positive with rash or contact: recent infection, confirm with avidity or repeat
Fourfold rise in IgG between paired sera: recent infection

Causes of low values

IgG < 10 IU/mL: susceptible, vaccinate after pregnancy

Method

CLIA/ELISA

Good to know

False-positive IgM occurs with parvovirus B19, EBV and rheumatoid factor.

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