CMV inclusion bodies (urine)
Quick answer: This test looks under a microscope for cells in urine with typical changes (inclusion bodies) caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV). It may be used when CMV infection is suspected, for example in newborns or people with weak immunity; PCR tests are now more often used.
- SampleUrine
- TakesA few minutes to give the sample
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careCMV infection during pregnancy can affect the baby, so newborns may be tested when infection is suspected.
How the test is done
- 1You give a fresh urine sample in a sterile container
- 2The lab spins the urine to collect the cells
- 3The cells are placed on a slide and stained
- 4A pathologist looks for large cells with typical 'owl's eye' changes
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A negative result does not rule out CMV, as this method can miss infection; discuss further testing with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Finding inclusion bodies can point to active CMV infection, which matters most in newborns and people with weak immunity. A negative result does not rule out CMV, as this method can miss it, so PCR or antibody tests are often used.
Who usually has this test
Newborns suspected of having CMV from birth, and people with weakened immunity, such as after a transplant.
Risks and aftercare
There are no risks; for a newborn, a urine bag may leave the skin slightly red for a short while.
Names and options
Also called: cytomegalovirus urine test, CMV urine cytology
Listed by the hospital as
- CMV INCLUSSION BODIES, URINE
Questions about this test
Is this the same as a CMV antibody test?
No. Antibody tests look for your immune response in blood, while this test looks for virus-damaged cells in urine. Doctors choose the test based on who is being tested and why.
Why does CMV matter in pregnancy?
A first CMV infection in pregnancy can pass to the baby and sometimes cause hearing loss or other problems. Testing is usually guided by symptoms or scan findings, so ask your obstetrician whether it applies to you.
Can a newborn be tested this way?
Yes, urine from a newborn is a common sample for CMV present from birth, ideally collected in the first few weeks of life. Newer PCR tests find the virus more often than looking for inclusion bodies.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.