Epstein-Barr virus antibody test

Epstein-Barr Virus Antibody Tests

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) antibody tests are used to detect the presence of antibodies to EBV, also referred to as the Human Herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4). EBV is a very common virus that is usually spread through saliva and can cause mononucleosis. EBV tests can identify if a person has been exposed to the virus.

Preparation for the Test

The EPV antibody test requires no special preparation. It can be performed in a doctor's office or at a laboratory.

Procedure

The EPV antibody test is typically performed using either a serum test or an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Serum tests can detect two types of EBV antibodies: IgG and IgM. IgG antibodies indicate a recent or past infection, while IgM antibodies indicate a current infection. ELISA tests enable the doctor to screen for all types of EBV antibodies and can detect prior, current, and recent infection.

Types

There are three types of EBV antibody tests: an EBV-VCA (viral capsid antigen) IgM antibody test, an EBV-VCA IgG antibody test, and a heterophile antibody test.

• The EBV-VCA IgM antibody test is used to detect levels of IgM antibodies in the blood. This test is used to diagnose an active infection.
• The EBV-VCA IgG antibody test is used to detect levels of IgG antibodies in the blood. This test is used to diagnose a past infection.
• The heterophile antibody test is used to detect levels of antibodies in the blood. This test is used to diagnose an acute infection.

Risks

There are no risks associated with the EBV antibody test. It is a non-invasive test that can be carried out quickly and easily without any discomfort.

Why Is the Test Done?

The EBV antibody test is usually done to determine if a person has been exposed to the virus, or if they currently have an active infection. It can also be used to screen for mononucleosis, which is often caused by EBV.

When to Get Tested?

It is recommended that anyone experiencing EBV-like symptoms or who has been in contact with someone with EBV should get tested for the virus. It is also recommended that those who have never been tested for EBV should consider getting tested, to determine if they have been exposed.