Epstein-Barr virus test
Alternative Names: EBV antibody test; Monospot
Epstein-Barr virus test is a blood test to detect antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigens.
See also: Monospot test
Why is the Test Performed?
The test is done to detect an infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The EBV antibody test will detect not only a recent infection but one that occurred in the past. It can be used to tell the difference between a recent or previous infection.
How is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture
The sample is sent to a lab, where a lab specialist looks for antibodies to the Ebstein-Barr virus. In the first stages of an illness, little antibody may be detected. For this reason, serology tests are often repeated 10 days to 2 or more weeks.
Preparation for the Test
There is no special preparation for the test.
How will the Test Feel?
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Epstein-Barr virus test Risks
There is very little risk involved with having your blood taken. Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Taking blood from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting or feeling light-headed
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Normal Results for Epstein-Barr virus test
A normal result means no antibodies to EBV was seen in your blood sample. This means you have never been infected with EBV.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some labs use different measurements or test different samples. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
A positive result means there are antibodies to EBV in the person's blood, indicating a current or prior infection with EBV.
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Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Copyright 2011 A.D.A.M., Inc.
