Method variation of cytomegalovirus IGM assays in EQA

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that infects people of all ages. Correctly diagnosing primary CMV infection in pregnant women critical to avoid congenital anomalies. IgM specificity poor detecting infections due vial reactivation or persistence following infection. Algorithms using and IgG avidity can be useful. We sought review the performance assays RCPAQAP External Quality Assurance (EQA) Program. Data sourced from an expected positive consenting donor sample was assessed software. The same included four surveys over three years. Variation quantitative data across methods consistently noted (e.g., Roche vs Diasorin). There were also similar differences qualitative interpretations between ‘negative’ ‘positive’ groups (21 92, respectively). While 120 sites reported for IgM, only 34 these measured which more than 95% as ‘high’. In clinical setting, access both results may benefit. study limited, further investigation discrepancies when interpreting should considered. inclusion recommended.