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IgA Anti-Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Antibody, Serum

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

This test measures the presence of Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies against the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) viral capsid antigen (VCA). These antibodies help your immune system recognize and fight the virus.

Quick summary

["IgA antibodies to EBV VCA can indicate past or current infection with EBV."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110850-5
Short code
E chaffeensis IgM Msmt Ser
Synonyms
E chaffeensis IgM Msmt 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

What Does This Test Measure?

IgA antibodies are a type of antibody produced by your immune system in response to infections. In this test, we specifically look for IgA antibodies against EBV VCA, a common antigen found in the virus. These antibodies can appear after the body has been exposed to EBV, which is often spread through saliva and can cause infections like mononucleosis.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Doctors may order this test to diagnose or monitor EBV infection, especially if symptoms like fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, or sore throat are present. It can also help assess immune responses in certain conditions or after vaccination.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood without blood cells) is then analyzed to detect IgA antibodies against EBV VCA using an immunoassay method.

What Are Possible Results?

A positive result suggests the presence of IgA antibodies, indicating past or current EBV infection. A negative result means no detectable IgA antibodies were found in this sample. Interpretation depends on clinical context and other test results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

IgA Anti-VCA EBV

Frequently asked questions

What Are Common Symptoms of EBV Infection?
EBV infection often causes symptoms like fatigue, sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and sometimes rash. Some people may not have noticeable symptoms.
How Does This Test Differ from Other EBV Tests?
This test specifically measures IgA antibodies to EBV VCA, which can differ from tests measuring IgG antibodies (which often indicate past infection) or other EBV-related markers. IgA antibodies are less commonly measured for routine EBV diagnosis.
Can This Test Be Used to Diagnose Mononucleosis?
While IgA antibodies to EBV VCA can be part of diagnosing EBV infection, doctors often rely on a combination of clinical symptoms, physical exam findings, and other tests (like EBV DNA testing or IgM antibodies) for a definitive diagnosis of mononucleosis.
  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