Test Directory

Differential diagnosis of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV, aka Infectious Mononucleosis). Viral Capsid Antigen (VCA) IgG antibodies appear early in EBV infection and titers peak between 2-4 weeks after the appearance of symptoms. IgG levels decline slightly but persist for life. The presence of VCA IgG antibodies in healthy individuals indicates immunological exposure to EBV either as silent primary infection or past exposure. 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