Interpretation

IgM:

A positive result is consistent with the acute phase of West Nile virus (WNV) meningitis or encephalitis. In the very early stages of acute WNV infection, IgM may be detectable in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) before it becomes detectable in serum.

A negative result may indicate absence of disease. However, specimens collected too early in the acute phase may be negative for IgM-class antibodies to WNV. If WNV central nervous system infection is suspected, a second specimen should be collected in 1 to 2 weeks and tested.

IgG:

A positive result may indicate recent or past central nervous system (CNS) infection with WNV. Clinical correlation is necessary.

This assay is unable to distinguish between intrathecal antibody synthesis and serum antibodies introduced into the CSF at the time of lumbar puncture or from a breakdown in the blood-brain barrier. Positive results should be interpreted with other laboratory and clinical data prior to a diagnosis of CNS infection.