EBV Ab VCA IgG Blood Test

Sample Report Test Code: 096230 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

EBV Ab VCA IgG Blood Test (Labcorp)

The EBV (Epstein Barr Virus) Antibodies to Viral Capsid Antigen, IgG test looks for a type of antibody which the body usually develops in response to an infection with Epstein-Barr Virus.  IgG Antibodies usually develop 2-4 weeks after initial infection and remain in the body for the life of the person.  A positive result for this test typically indicates a previous exposure to EBV.

Epstein-Barr Virus is one of the most common viruses with as many as 95% of the people in the U.S. having been exposed by the age of 40.  In many people the virus causes no symptoms.  Those infected during adolescence or young adulthood may develop Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono).  Common symptoms of Mono include fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph glands, and sometimes an enlarged spleen or liver.  Additional complications affecting the heart or nervous system may occur but are rare.  Symptoms of Mono typically clear up after a couple months but EBV will remain dormant in the body for the rest of a person's life.  Periodic reactivation of the virus may occur but usually does not cause symptoms or illness.  EBV is normally spread through contact with an infected person's saliva.  Some people remain capable of transmitting the virus throughout their lives. 

This test is usually ordered when someone is experiencing symptoms associated with Mono to help diagnose or rule out infection with EBV, especially if they have shown negative results from a Mononucleosis test.  Pregnant women experiencing symptoms are often tested for EBV.  While EBV does not typically cause complications during pregnancy, it can be helpful to rule it out as a cause for the mother's illness. 

Turnaround time for the EBV Abs VCA, IgG is typically 2-3 business days.

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