Blood sample (serum)
Gold top clotted (5ml)
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
Local test
48-72 hours
Please contact the laboratory for enquiries regarding urgent tests
EBV Antibodies – Lab Tests Online
Specimen Labelling Procedure