Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG Antibody, Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in your blood. These antibodies indicate whether your immune system has encountered the virus before.
["This test helps determine past exposure to EBV, which can inform health assessments or guide further medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40753-6
- Short code
- EBV NA IgG Ser IF-aCnc
- Synonyms
- EBV NA IgG Ser IF-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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 the nuclear antigen of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). IgG antibodies are typically produced after an initial infection and remain in your system for long-term immunity. This helps identify if you’ve been exposed to EBV at any point in your life.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of EBV infection (e.g., fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes), if you’re investigating autoimmune conditions linked to EBV, or if you’re part of a screening for conditions like infectious mononucleosis or certain cancers.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless, though you may feel slight discomfort for a moment.
What to Expect After the Test
After the blood draw, you can resume your normal activities. There may be mild bruising or soreness at the site, but this usually fades within a few days. Avoid vigorous activity for 24 hours if instructed.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results (detecting EBV IgG antibodies) suggest past infection, which is common in adults. However, they don’t confirm an active infection. If you have symptoms like fever, severe fatigue, or swollen glands, additional tests may be needed to rule out other conditions. High antibody levels could also be relevant in research or monitoring certain immune-related conditions.
Short name
EBV IgG Antibody
Frequently asked questions
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Can I Have an Active EBV Infection If My Test Is Positive?
Does This Test Differentiate Between Types of EBV Exposure?
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