Epstein-Barr Virus, Viral Capsid Antigen IgM (EBV VCA IgM, Serum)
The study is aimed at detecting IgM class antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viral capsid antigen.
Used for diagnosing primary acute EBV infection, including infectious mononucleosis.
Prescribed in the presence of characteristic clinical manifestations: fever, sore throat, enlarged lymph nodes, liver, and spleen.
Applied for differential diagnosis of prolonged and atypically occurring viral infections.
Used to exclude or confirm EBV as the cause of pronounced lymphocytosis and atypical mononuclear cells in blood.
What the test assesses:
– Presence or absence of IgM antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus capsid antigen.
– Acute phase of primary infection.
– Recent EBV infection (usually within the first weeks of disease).
Biomaterial: Venous blood (serum)
– Submit fasting (at least 8 hours after the last meal).
– Drinking still water is allowed.
– It is advisable to exclude intense physical exertion within 24 hours.
Medications:
– Antiviral and immunomodulatory medications may affect the test result.
– Immunoglobulin administration can distort serological indicators.
– It is recommended to submit the test before starting therapy or be sure to inform the doctor about medication intake.
Recommended for testing:
– When infectious mononucleosis or EBV infection is suspected.
– With fever, pronounced intoxication, enlarged lymph nodes.
– With symptoms of viral infection in children and adolescents.
– With lymphocytosis, presence of atypical mononuclear cells, changes in complete blood count.
– Positive result (IgM detected): indicates primary acute Epstein-Barr virus infection.
– Negative result (IgM not detected): absence of acute EBV infection; or examination conducted too early (seronegative 'window').
Important — to clarify the infection stage, simultaneous determination of VCA IgG, EBNA IgG is recommended, and if necessary, EBV PCR.
Result on the day of the request
