Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Nuclear Antigen (EBNA) Antibody (IgG) Test
This test measures IgG antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen (EBNA) in a blood sample. This antibody typically becomes detectable during convalescence and remains detectable for life, which is why it helps clinicians place an EBV infection in time.
About this test
The test measures IgG antibody directed against the Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen in serum, using an immunoassay method. Quest describes this antibody as typically becoming detectable during convalescence, a period well after the initial illness, and remaining detectable for life once it appears.
Epstein-Barr virus causes infectious mononucleosis, which is usually self-limiting in children and young adults, and Quest also notes an association with lymphoproliferative disorders, including tumors. EBNA IgG is often read together with VCA-IgM antibody results: VCA-IgM positivity without EBNA IgG is associated with recent, active infection, which is how the two results together help place an infection's timing.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports the level of IgG antibody against the EBV nuclear antigen in serum. Because this antibody appears later than other EBV markers and then persists for life, it is used together with other EBV antibody results, rather than by itself, to help place an infection's timing.
How it's often used alongside other tests
Quest describes EBNA IgG as used together with VCA-IgM antibody results to evaluate the timing of an Epstein-Barr virus infection. VCA-IgM positivity without EBNA IgG points toward recent, active infection, while EBNA IgG positivity points toward a past infection, so the two are read as a pair rather than individually.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures IgG antibody against the Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen (EBNA) in serum, an antibody that typically becomes detectable during convalescence and remains detectable for life.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a serum sample from a routine blood draw, analyzed using an immunoassay method.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
How does this test relate to VCA-IgM testing?
Quest describes EBNA IgG as used together with VCA-IgM antibody results to help evaluate the timing of an EBV infection. VCA-IgM positivity without EBNA IgG is associated with recent, active infection.
Does Epstein-Barr virus cause a specific illness?
Quest notes that Epstein-Barr virus causes infectious mononucleosis, usually self-limiting in children and young adults, and is also associated with lymphoproliferative disorders, including tumors.