Analysis index

Antibody demonstration: 1 ml serum, 1 ml CSF

RNA demonstration: Serum, EDTA-blood, CSF, pharyngeal swab, nasal swab, tracheal secretion (external service)

Serum:

IgG: < 200 – 275 mIE/ml

IgM: < 0,9 – 1,1 index

PCR: negative

Suspicion of measles infection (Koplik’s spots, febrile catarrhal symptoms, later exanthema, possible pneumonia, otitis media, encephalitis)

The laboratory reports molecular biological (PCR) as well as serological proof (IgM antibody increase, 4-fold IgG antibody increase) to the local health department. Suspicion, disease and death have to be reported by the treating physician.

Incubation period 10 – 12 days. Infectiousness approximately 4 – 5 days before to 3 – 5 days after occurrence of exanthema. If IgG titers are > 275 mIE/ml, immune protection can be assumed.