Epstein-Barr Virus Antibody Screen (Qualitative) - Total Antibodies
This test detects antibodies to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common virus that can cause infections like mononucleosis. It helps determine if your immune system has encountered EBV.
["This test helps diagnose or monitor EBV infection by checking for immune system response."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13238-1
- Short code
- EBV Ab Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- EBV Ab Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, fever, or swollen lymph nodes, which can be linked to EBV. It may also be used during routine check-ups, especially if you have a history of EBV exposure or certain conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome.
What to Expect During the Test
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause significant discomfort. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
Understanding Your Results
If the test is positive, it means your immune system has detected EBV antibodies, suggesting past or current infection. A negative result indicates no detectable antibodies, meaning either you’ve never been exposed or the infection is very recent.
Common Symptoms Linked to EBV
EBV can cause a range of symptoms, including persistent fatigue, swollen glands, sore throat, fever, and headaches. Some people experience no symptoms at all.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is crucial for diagnosing EBV-related illnesses like infectious mononucleosis. It can also guide treatment decisions, monitor chronic conditions, or assess immune responses in certain medical scenarios. While EBV is usually harmless, it can sometimes lead to complications, and this test helps track its presence.
Short name
EBV Antibody Screen (Qualitative)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How long does it take to get the results?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy