Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Nuclear Antigen IgG Antibody, Serum
This test measures the presence of antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in your blood. It helps determine if you’ve been exposed to the virus and whether your immune system has mounted an immune response.
["This test helps track past or current EBV infection and immune response."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23994-7
- Short code
- EBV NA IgG Titr CSF IF
- Synonyms
- EBV NA IgG Titr CSF IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 82977
- SNOMED
- 3110003
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes that could be linked to EBV infection. It may also be used to monitor chronic conditions like infectious mononucleosis or to assess immune function in certain situations.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. It usually takes a few minutes, and you may feel a brief pinch. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate you’ve been exposed to EBV and likely have developed antibodies. The presence of these antibodies doesn’t necessarily mean you’re currently infected, but it shows your body has recognized the virus. Negative results suggest no detectable antibodies, meaning either you’ve never been exposed or the test was taken too early.
Common Reasons for Testing
EBV IgG tests are often used to diagnose or confirm past EBV infections, monitor chronic conditions like mononucleosis, or assess immune responses in certain medical scenarios.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
EBV IgG Antibody (Nuclear Antigen)
Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to get my results?
Can I have this test if I’m pregnant?
Does this test detect active EBV infection?
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