EBV VCA Abs IgM & IgG Blood Panel
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Test Code: 054262
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
EBV VCA Ab IgM & IgG Blood Test (Labcorp)
The EBV VCA IgM & IgG package looks for two types of antibodies which the body typically develops in response to infection with Epstein-Barr Virus. This package includes testing for Viral Capsid Antigen IgM and Viral Capsid Antigen IgG. IgM antibodies usually develop shortly after infection and phase out after a couple of months. In some cases, IgM antibodies may also be present if a latent infection has reactivated. IgG antibodies typically develop within a month of infection and persist for the rest of the person's life. Testing for both types of antibodies is useful for determining if a person has had a recent or past 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 of 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 typically ordered when someone is experiencing symptoms associated with Mono, especially if they have had 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 of the mother's illness. Ordering both VCA tests together is especially helpful if a person is not certain when an infection may have occurred.
Turnaround time for this package is typically 2-3 business days.
Where can I find a EBV VCA Abs IgM & IgG test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
Detection Period:
IgM antibodies are typically detectable within 2-3 weeks of infection but may be detectable earlier in some people. These antibodies will typically no longer be detectable 4-6 weeks after infection. These antibodies may be detectable for a longer period in adults.
IgG antibodies will typically be detectable around 2-4 weeks after exposure and will remain detectable for the rest of a person's life. In some people they may be detectable sooner.
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