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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 determine if you’ve been exposed to EBV and whether your immune system has developed antibodies against it."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12212-7
Short code
EBV NA IgG Titr Ser IF
Synonyms
EBV NA IgG Titr Ser IF
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
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
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 Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen (EBNA). These antibodies appear after your body has been exposed to EBV and indicate long-term immunity.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor EBV infection, assess immune function, or evaluate conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, lymphoma, or other autoimmune diseases linked to EBV.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The test uses serum or plasma from this blood sample to detect the antibodies.

What Are the Possible Results?

A positive result means you likely have developed antibodies against EBV, suggesting past exposure. A negative result may mean you haven’t been exposed recently or your immune system hasn’t yet produced these antibodies.

Reference range

Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

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 suggests you have been exposed to EBV and your immune system has produced IgG antibodies against its nuclear antigen. This does not necessarily mean you are currently infected but indicates past exposure.
Can this test be used to diagnose active EBV infection?
No, this test alone cannot diagnose an active EBV infection. It measures antibodies from past exposure. For active infection, other tests like viral load or viral antigen detection may be needed.
Is there any risk or discomfort from this blood test?
There is usually minimal discomfort from the blood draw, which may include a slight pinch or sting. Most people feel fine afterward. Rarely, there may be mild bruising or swelling at the site.
  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