Check for antibodies to the virus that causes glandular fever. This simple test helps determine if you’ve had a previous infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. IgM antibodies help determine whether a current infection is likely.
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What's in the test?
Immunity
EBNA IgG antibodies
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The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a member of the herpes virus family that causes glandular fever, spread through saliva. Once infected, EBV remains in the body for the rest of the individuals life, but the virus often presents no symptoms unless the immune system is compromised which allows the virus to reactivate. EBNA, or Epstein-Barr nuclear antigens are proteins produced and expressed by EBV. The body produces EBNA IgG antibodies when infected by EBV.
Epstein-Barr virus capsid antigen IgM
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The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a member of the herpes virus family that causes glandular fever. Once infected, EBV remains in the body for the rest of the individuals life, but the virus often presents no symptoms unless the immune system is compromised which allows the virus to reactivate. Spread through the saliva, it is estimated that around 95% of people in the UK will have been infected by EBV by the time they are 40.
Epstein-Barr virus capsid antigen IgG
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If the body is infected with bacteria, viruses or any other harmful microorganisms, the immune system produces antibodies to fight the infection. IgG antibodies are produced in a delayed response to an infection and can be retained in the body for a long time. The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a member of the herpes virus family that causes glandular fever. Once infected, EBV remains in the body for the rest of the individuals life, but the virus often presents no symptoms unless the immune system is compromised which allows the virus to reactivate. VCA IgG antibodies target the viral capsid antigen found on the virus.
How to prepare for your test
Test limitations
A positive result indicates past exposure but does not necessarily mean an active infection.
Reviews
FAQs
What is EBV?
EBV is a member of the herpes virus family and is transmitted through saliva. EBV causes glandular fever in up to 50% of infected people. After initial exposure to the virus, there is an incubation period of several weeks. EBV then causes a primary infection, followed by resolution and dormancy. Symptoms of glandular fever include a very high temperature, a severe sore throat, swollen glands, and extreme fatigue.
Which antibodies are produced in an EBV response?
Several EBV antibodies can be produced in an immune response to EBV antigens, including IgM and IgG-antibodies to the viral capsid antigen (VCA) and antibodies to the nuclear antigen (EBNA). Our blood test checks for all three of these antibodies.
What is an EBV antibodies test for?
Our Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antibodies test helps diagnose a current, recent, or past EBV infection.