Rubella IgG ( German Measles)

Rubella is a common childhood disease that causes a rash on the skin. Rubella, also called three-day measles, is considered an acute viral disease because it only lasts a couple of days. It also is called German measles because it was first recorded by German physicists.

The most common reason for ordering a Rubella Antibodies, IgG test is if a healthcare provider suspects the patient has rubella. OB/GYNs sometimes order the test for women who are pregnant or want to become pregnant. Those working in health care settings may also be required to have the test since they could potentially spread the disease to their patients. A positive test result means that the patient was either vaccinated against the disease or had a past infection and that they are immune to rubella.

Benefits of Testing:

Since the rubella rash looks like many other rashes attributed to different conditions, confirmation of rubella is done with the Rubella Antibodies, IgG test. The test indicates if you have had an infection or have been immunized against rubella. If there is no presence of the antibody, females may still contract the disease while pregnant. This can cause miscarriages, stillbirths or serious birth defects in the infant. An immunization after a negative test result can prevent the woman from contracting the disease.

Reviewed By: Dr. Kurt Kloss, MD
Last Reviewed Date: May 24, 2019