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114Infections and serology

Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG

EBNA IgG

Detects IgG antibodies to the EBV nuclear antigen.

Fasting: not needed

Test name

ქართულად
EBV ბირთვული ანტიგენის IgG ანტისხეულები
English
Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen IgG
Abbreviation
EBNA IgG

What does the test measure?

Detects IgG antibodies to the EBV nuclear antigen.

Why is it ordered?

To determine the stage of EBV infection together with VCA antibodies.

How should I prepare?

  1. Tell your doctor when your symptoms started or when you may have been exposed to the infection.
  2. Fasting is usually not required for blood antibody tests. Tell your doctor when the illness started and about your current treatment.
  3. List the medications you take, any immunosuppressive treatment, and previous test results if you have them.
  4. If the test is done very soon after a possible infection, discuss with your doctor whether a negative result should be repeated.

Do I need to fast?

Fasting is generally not required. If another test has been ordered at the same time, the overall preparation plan may change.

When should the test be done?

A specific time is generally not required. If your doctor has set a different time, follow those instructions.

What can affect the result?

  • Time since infection and the antibody development window
  • Immune status and some treatments
  • Cross-reactions and test specificity

Which sample is needed?

Venous blood — serum or plasma

How is the sample collected and stored?

The blood sample is collected by a qualified staff member. The tube type, required volume, and processing and storage conditions are set by the laboratory's specific method. You do not need to store the sample yourself.

What does the result mean?

EBNA IgG usually appears at a later stage of infection and can persist for a long time. A positive or negative result should be interpreted in light of the stage of illness and the accuracy of the test.

When should I see a doctor?

If the result is positive, reactive or equivocal, see your doctor to decide whether further testing and treatment are needed.

Important warnings and recommendations

The EBV serology profile is best interpreted together with other EBV antibodies; a single marker does not always determine the stage of infection.

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