Ebv capsid protein 18 IgG antibody, Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) capsid protein 18 in your blood. These antibodies indicate past or ongoing infection by EBV, a common virus that can affect the immune system and sometimes cause diseases like mononucleosis.
["This test helps diagnose or monitor EBV infection and assess immune response to the virus."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 84871-3
- Short code
- EBV capsid p18 IgG Ser Ql IA.rapid
- Synonyms
- EBV capsid p18 IgG Ser Ql IA.rapid
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia-rapid
- CPT
- 82784
- 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
What Does This Test Measure?
The test detects IgG antibodies specific to EBV capsid protein 18, a protein found in the virus’s outer shell. These antibodies develop after your body has encountered EBV, typically within weeks to months after infection. IgG antibodies remain in your system long-term and can indicate immunity or chronic infection.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of EBV infection (e.g., fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes) or if you’re at higher risk (e.g., immunocompromised individuals, those with certain cancers like lymphoma). It can also help evaluate chronic EBV-related conditions or monitor treatment response.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The test uses serum (liquid part of blood after clotting), so fasting is not required.
What Are Possible Results?
A positive result means your body has produced IgG antibodies against EBV capsid protein 18, suggesting past or current infection. A negative result indicates no detectable antibodies at this time, which may mean you’ve never been exposed or the test was taken too early.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
EBV is linked to several health conditions, including infectious mononucleosis, certain cancers (e.g., Burkitt lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma), and long-term complications in immunocompromised patients. While IgG antibodies signal immunity, chronic infection can persist and may require further evaluation by a healthcare provider.
Short name
EBV Capsid Antibody (IgG)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can I get this test if I’m pregnant?
What if my results are positive but I don’t have symptoms?
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