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Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your body’s immune response to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common virus that can cause infections like mononucleosis.

Quick summary

["It helps track past exposure to EBV and assess long-term immunity."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5155-7
Short code
EBV NA IgG Ser Ql IF
Synonyms
EBV NA IgG Ser Ql IF
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 antibodies specific to the nuclear antigen of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). These antibodies develop after your body has encountered the virus, usually months to years after initial infection. This is a marker of past infection rather than an active illness.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms of mononucleosis (fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat), if you have a history of EBV infection, or if you’re evaluating immune function in certain conditions. It can also be used in research or monitoring for certain autoimmune or cancer-related studies.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is then tested for the presence of EBV IgG antibodies using an immunoassay method. This process typically takes a few days to complete.

What Are Possible Results?

A positive result indicates you have developed antibodies against EBV, suggesting you’ve been exposed to the virus at some point. A negative result means further testing or additional samples may be needed to rule out past exposure or to check for other markers.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

EBV IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result means your immune system has recognized and fought off the Epstein-Barr virus in the past. This does not mean you are currently infected or at risk of developing symptoms again. It simply shows your body has developed antibodies to protect against future exposure.
What If My Test Result Is Negative?
A negative result suggests you may not have been exposed to EBV or that your body hasn’t yet produced detectable antibodies. If you suspect you’ve been exposed, your doctor may recommend retesting after a few months or checking for other EBV markers, such as EBV IgM antibodies, which indicate a recent infection.
Can This Test Be Used to Diagnose Active EBV Infection?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose an active EBV infection. To assess current infection, doctors may use other tests, such as EBV IgM antibody tests or viral load measurements, which look for signs of active virus replication in your body.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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