Epstein-Barr Virus Viral Capsid Antigen IgG

Detects IgG antibodies to the EBV viral capsid antigen.

To assess EBV exposure or the stage of infection together with other antibodies.

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.

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

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

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

Venous blood — serum or plasma

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.

EBV VCA IgG often stays positive for a long time after a past infection. A positive or negative result should be interpreted in light of the stage of illness and the accuracy of the test.

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

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