Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG Antibody (Serum)
This test measures antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common virus that can cause infections like mononucleosis.
["It helps determine past exposure to EBV and long-term immunity status."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 66493-8
- Short code
- EBV NA 1 IgG Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- EBV NA 1 IgG 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
- 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 This Test Measures
The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a type of herpesvirus that can cause infections such as glandular fever (mononucleosis) and other illnesses. After you recover from an infection, your immune system produces antibodies, including IgG antibodies, to help protect you from future infections. This test detects IgG antibodies specific to EBV’s nuclear antigen, indicating that your body has likely encountered the virus before.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of EBV infection, such as fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or sore throat, or if you have been exposed to someone with EBV. It may also be used to assess immunity in individuals at risk for EBV-related conditions or to monitor chronic infections in certain clinical settings.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you are pregnant, have a bleeding disorder, or are on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample will be taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort, but it usually lasts only a few seconds. The test itself is quick, and you can return to your normal activities afterward.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
EBV IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
A positive result means your immune system has produced EBV-specific IgG antibodies, suggesting past infection and likely immunity. A negative result does not rule out past exposure, as it may take weeks or months for antibodies to develop after infection. This test is not used to diagnose current EBV infection but can help confirm prior exposure or assess immune response in certain contexts.
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing schedule. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your follow-up visit.
This test is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but your provider may recommend additional testing or monitoring if you have specific concerns about EBV exposure or related conditions.
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