EBV Viral Capsid Antigen (VCA) Antibodies IgM (Serum)
The study is aimed at detecting IgM class antibodies to the EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA).
Used for diagnosing primary acute Epstein-Barr virus infection (infectious mononucleosis).
Prescribed for symptoms: fever, enlarged lymph nodes, sore throat, enlarged liver and spleen.
Applied for differential diagnosis of acute viral infections, especially with atypical course.
What the test assesses:
– Presence of IgM antibodies to EBV VCA.
– Acute phase of the infectious process.
– Degree of infection freshness and acuteness (IgM appears at early stages of primary infection and disappears after 4-6 weeks).
Biomaterial: Venous blood (serum)
– Submit fasting (8-12 hours after the last meal).
– Drinking still water is allowed.
Medications:
– Antiviral and immunomodulatory medications may affect antibody levels.
– Immunoglobulin administration can distort results.
– The doctor should be notified about all medications taken.
Recommended for testing:
– When infectious mononucleosis or acute EBV infection is suspected.
– With fever, intoxication, enlarged lymph nodes, and URI symptoms.
– With viral infection in children with characteristic manifestations.
– With atypical changes in complete blood count, lymphocytosis, monocytosis.
– Positive result (VCA IgM detected): indicates primary acute EBV infection; characteristic of the initial phase of infectious mononucleosis.
– Negative result (VCA IgM not detected): no signs of acute primary infection; does not exclude latent or past infection (verification of VCA IgG and EBNA IgG needed).
Important — for precise determination of the infection stage, combination with other EBV markers is recommended: VCA IgG, EA IgG, EBNA IgG.
