Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibodies blood tests are used to help diagnose EBV infection, the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis (mono), if a person is symptomatic but has a negative mono test. These tests may be ordered for an asymptomatic person to see if that person has been previously exposed to EBV or is susceptible to a primary EBV infection.
Symtoms include:
Extreme weakness or fatigue
Fever
Headache
Sore throat
Swollen lymph glands in the neck and/or armpits
Enlarged spleen and/or liver (sometimes)
This test may be ordered for an asymptomatic person to see if that person has been previously exposed to EBV or is susceptible to a primary EBV infection.
IgM antibodies are typically detectable within 2-3 weeks of infection but may be detectable earlier in some people. These antibodies will typically disappear 4-6 weeks after infection.
LC Sample ReportQD Sample Report
Test Code(s):
096735, 8426
Also Known As:
Epstein Barr Viral Capsid Antigen Antibodies IgM; Epstein-Barr Virus Viral Capsid Antigen (VCA) Antibody (IgM)
Preparation:
No special preparation required.
Test Results:
1-2 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
