Description
An Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) panel, which includes VCA IgG/IgM, early, and EBNA IgG, is a blood test that can help determine if someone has an EBV infection and the stage of that infection:
VCA-IgM
- Usually appears at the start of an EBV infection and disappears within a few months. The presence of VCA-IgM antibodies indicates a recent primary EBV infection.
VCA-IgG
- Appears during the acute phase of an EBV infection and remains detectable for life. The presence of VCA-IgG antibodies indicates a past EBV infection.
EBNA IgG
- Usually appears 3–4 months after the onset of symptoms and remains detectable for life. The presence of EBNA IgG antibodies indicates an EBV infection that occurred in the past.
A positive test result indicates a current or reactivated EBV infection. However, it can be difficult to interpret the results because the presence of certain antibodies can overlap. For example, VCA-IgG can be present without VCA-IgM or EBNA-1 IgG, or all three parameters may be detected simultaneously.
EBV is a common cause of viral infections in humans. Most people are infected in childhood and experience few or no symptoms. However, if the infection occurs in adolescence, it can cause infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono.
Fasting not required.
