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Antibody to Epstein-Barr Virus (IgG) - 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

["It helps determine past exposure to EBV and long-term immunity status."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5351-2
Short code
ENA SS-A Ab Ser Ql IA
Synonyms
ENA SS-A Ab Ser Ql IA
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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 produced by your immune system in response to EBV. IgG antibodies are typically present after an infection has resolved, indicating past exposure. This marker does not detect acute infection but provides information about your immune system’s reaction to EBV over time.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms of EBV infection (e.g., fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes), if you’ve been exposed to someone with EBV, or if you have conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome or autoimmune diseases where EBV is suspected as a contributing factor.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result means your immune system has detected EBV and produced IgG antibodies, suggesting you have been infected at some point in the past. This does not indicate whether you had symptoms or if the infection was active at the time of testing.

What Does a Negative Result Mean?

A negative result suggests you either have not been exposed to EBV or your immune system has not yet produced detectable IgG antibodies. This does not rule out recent infection, as IgG antibodies may take weeks to develop after exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

EBV IgG Antibody

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 3 to 5 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Follow-up with your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Can I get EBV again?
Yes, EBV is a lifelong virus. While you may not get severe symptoms again, you can still be infected and spread the virus to others. A positive IgG result does not prevent future exposure.
Does this test help diagnose active EBV infection?
No, this test specifically measures IgG antibodies, which indicate past exposure. For diagnosing active EBV infection, your doctor may order additional tests, such as detecting viral DNA or acute-phase IgM antibodies.
  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