Test Directory

Aid in the diagnosis of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV, aka Infectious Mononucleosis). EBV nuclear antigen (EBNA) IgG antibodies do not appear during the acute phase of infection but appear around 2-4 months after initial clinical presentation and typically persist for life.

The presence of EBNA IgG antibodies in healthy individuals typically indicates past immunological exposure to EBV; however, false positive results can occur. Additionally, approximately 5-10% of individuals infected with EBV never develop EBNA IgG antibodies. Because of the complex relationship that exists between the EBV virus/host reaction and clinical manifestation, tracking of EBV antibody patterns may assist in diagnosis of EBV infection. Individual levels of specific antibodies are not necessarily indicative of disease state but can be of diagnostic significance when tracked as an antibody response profile. Antibody response profiles for the different EBV antigens demonstrate a characteristic pattern for silent primary or persistent latent EBV infections, as well as for each of the EBV-associated disease.

Specimen Type: Serum

Preferred Collection Container: Gold Top, Serum Separator

Alternate Collection Container: Red Top, Separator

Minimum Acceptable Volume: 0.8 mL

Separator tubes: Contains clot activator and gel for separating serum from cells, but not anticoagulant. Separate serum from cells as soon as the clot has formed (30 minutes). If specimen is centrifuged before clotting is complete, a fibrin clot will form on top of the cell. This may cause the gel barrier to not be intact and could cause improper separation of serum and cells, possibly affecting test results.

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

HNL Lab Medicine Special Chemistry Reference Intervals