Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)
This test measures the presence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibodies in your blood, specifically IgG antibodies against the nuclear antigen of the virus. These antibodies develop after infection and can persist long-term.
["This test helps diagnose or monitor past EBV infection, which can occur without symptoms."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26705-4
- Short code
- EBV NA IgM Titr Ser
- Synonyms
- EBV NA IgM Titr Ser
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes that could suggest EBV infection. It may also be used to check for chronic infections in people with weakened immune systems or to evaluate symptoms in children or adults who test negative for other infections.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood-thinning medication, let your provider know before the test.
What the Test Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of IgG antibodies, suggesting you’ve had an EBV infection at some point. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies, which could mean you’ve never been infected or the test was taken too early.
Common Reasons for Testing
EBV IgG testing is often used to confirm past infection rather than active illness. It’s less common for diagnosing recent infection because IgG antibodies develop slowly after exposure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive IgG results are typically not urgent for treatment but confirm past exposure. If you’re immunocompromised, these antibodies may indicate a history of infection that could affect immune function. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
EBV IgG Antibody (Serum/Plasma)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I have a repeat test if my first result is unclear?
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