Test Directory

Detects the presence of CMV from the saliva of a newborn under the age of 21 days. Early detection of CMV allows clinical team to develop appropriate clinical plan to help prevent vision/hearing loss, developmental and motor delay and other related health problems due to CMV. CMV is the most common infectious cause of birth defects in the United States.

About one out of 200 babies is born with congenital CMV. One out of five babies with congenital CMV will have symptoms or long-term health problems.

Specimen: Saliva

Collection Container: Universal Transport Media (UTM) or Viral Transport Media (VTM)

Desired Volume: 3 mL

Acceptable Minimum Volume: 1 mL

1. If baby was breastfed, wait a minimum of one hour prior to collection of the sample.
2. Introduce swab between the cheek and gum in one side of the mouth.
3. Allow to sit for 10-15 seconds.
4. Move swab to other side of mouth for another 10-15 seconds.
5. Remove from mouth and place in transport media.
6. Label and send to lab for CMV testing

 Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.

• Neonatal Cytomegalovirus
• Congenital CMV