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Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Nuclear Antigen IgG Antibody, Serum

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

["Helps assess past exposure to EBV and long-term immune status."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31375-9
Short code
EBV NA IgM Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
EBV NA IgM 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 Does This Test Measure?

The test detects IgG antibodies specific to the nuclear antigen of EBV in your blood. These antibodies develop after your body has been exposed to the virus, usually months to years after infection. IgG antibodies are typically the dominant type once you’ve recovered from an acute EBV infection.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms suggestive of chronic EBV infection (e.g., persistent fatigue, lymphadenopathy), if you’re investigating immune-related conditions, or if you’re evaluating long-term immune function post-infection.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result indicates you’ve likely had EBV at some point in your life. It does not distinguish between acute infection or chronic carrier status, but it confirms your immune system has mounted an antibody response.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result suggests you either have not been exposed to EBV or your current antibody levels are too low to detect. This could mean recent infection (before antibodies developed) or very early in the infection timeline.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily used as a marker of past EBV exposure and is not diagnostic for active infection. Chronic EBV infection can sometimes be associated with certain autoimmune or lymphoproliferative disorders, though further evaluation would be needed if symptoms or clinical suspicion exist. It can also be used in research or monitoring for immunocompromised patients.

Short name

EBV IgG Antibody (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

How is this test performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum portion of your blood is then tested in a laboratory using an immunoassay method to detect EBV-specific IgG antibodies.
What preparation is needed?
No special preparation is required. You may eat and drink normally before your blood draw, but avoid heavy meals right before the test to minimize discomfort.
How long will results take?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your laboratory’s processing schedule.
  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