Antibody to Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen (IgG) - Serology
This test measures the presence of antibodies against Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in your blood. It helps determine if your immune system has ever encountered the virus.
["This test helps track past infection with EBV, which can affect immunity and may be linked to certain health conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44083-4
- Short code
- ENA Ab Ser-Imp
- Synonyms
- ENA Ab Ser-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen (EBNA). IgG antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to past infection. They remain in your blood for a long time after the initial infection has cleared, serving as a marker of past exposure.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of EBV infection, such as fatigue, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes, or if you have a history of conditions linked to EBV, like infectious mononucleosis or certain cancers. It can also be used to monitor immune response in people with weakened immunity.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, similar to other routine blood tests. If you have a blood clot disorder or are on blood thinners, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will collect a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes to complete, and you may feel a brief pinch or slight discomfort during the blood draw.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results indicate that your body has produced IgG antibodies against EBV, suggesting you have had past infection. This does not mean you are currently infected. High levels of EBV IgG antibodies can be associated with conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome, certain cancers (e.g., Burkitt lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma), or autoimmune diseases. However, further evaluation may be needed to determine the clinical relevance of these findings. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
EBV IgG Antibody (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
Can this test detect current EBV infection?
What does a high level of EBV IgG antibodies mean?
Is there any risk or side effect from this blood test?
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