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EBV (Epstein Barr Virus) Serology

Microbiology


Specimen

Blood sample (serum)

Specimen container

Gold top clotted (5ml)

Test Usage

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the aetiological agent of infectious mononucleosis.

First line investigations = Monospot (by Chemistry lab) and differential FBC looking for atypical lymphocytes

2nd line tests:

We perform a combination of antibody tests against Epstein Barr Nuclear Antigen (EBNA) and Viral Capsid antigens (VCA). We provide an interpretation – this is easier to do if you include clinical details and onset dates.

If all tests are negative, but clinically the patient has Infectious Mononucleosis (Glandular Fever) request HIV, CMV IgM, CMV IgG and Toxoplasmosis.

EBNA IgG appears after 4-8 weeks and are lifelong

VCA IgM appears at presentation and lasts 4-8/52

VCA IgG appears at time clinical presentation and are lifelong

Availability

Local test

Processing Time

48-72 hours

Urgent Specimen Instructions

Please contact the laboratory for enquiries regarding urgent tests

Useful links

For Patients:

EBV Antibodies – Lab Tests Online

Specimen Labelling Procedure
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9018

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