The EBV EliSpot (latent) assesses T-cell responses to EBV latent-phase antigens and reports a Stimulation Index (SI) (0–1 negative, 2–3 weak positive, >3 positive). Because it captures cellular immunity, it’s best interpreted with EBV serology (VCA-IgM/IgG, EBNA-1 IgG, EA-IgG) and, when clinically relevant, EBV DNA PCR to evaluate replication. A positive result (>3 SI) reflects a clear immune response to latent EBV, which can support recent or ongoing immune engagement with EBV when symptoms fit, but it does not quantify viral load or diagnose disease on its own. Consider correlating with symptoms and basic labs, and trend over 4–6 weeks if uncertainty remains. Results may be affected by immunosuppression and pre-analytical handling; always use the performing lab’s cutoffs.
EBV EliSpot (T-cell response to Epstein-Barr virus)
The EBV EliSpot from ArminLabs measures how your T cells respond to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV causes infectious mononucleosis (mono) and, like other herpes viruses, stays in the body for life. Antibody tests show past or recent exposure. The EliSpot counts T cells that release interferon-gamma when exposed to EBV proteins in the lab.
What the two results mean:
- EBV latent: the T-cell response to proteins the virus makes while it is dormant in B cells.
- EBV lytic: the T-cell response to proteins the virus makes while it is actively replicating.
How to read the results:
- Results are reported as a stimulation index (SI). On the ArminLabs scale, 0–1 is negative, 2–3 is weakly positive and above 3 is positive.
- A response to latent antigens can reflect past EBV infection, which most adults have had. A negative response does not rule out past infection.
- Responses to lytic antigens can persist in healthy long-term carriers. They do not by themselves show recent reactivation.
- The test is best read with EBV antibodies (VCA IgM and IgG, EBNA-1 IgG, EA IgG) and, where relevant, EBV DNA PCR.
The test needs living cells, so the blood must reach the lab quickly. It is a specialty test and not part of standard guideline workups.
Biomarkers in this category
2 biomarkers · optimal ranges shown
The EBV EliSpot (lytic) by ArminLabs measures T-cell (IFN-γ) responses to EBV lytic-phase antigens, reported as a Stimulation Index (SI) that compares reactivity to a control. Reference ranges: 0–1 SI negative, 2–3 SI weak positive, >3 SI positive. A higher SI indicates more EBV-reactive T cells and, when paired with compatible symptoms, can support recent infection or reactivation; however, strong responses may also reflect immune memory, so results must be interpreted in clinical context. Use this test alongside EBV serology (VCA-IgM/IgG, EBNA-1 IgG, EA-IgG) to help stage infection and EBV DNA PCR to assess active replication/viral load; consider CBC and liver enzymes if symptomatic. For equivocal cases or to assess dynamics, repeat in 4–6 weeks and look for trends. Results can be influenced by immunosuppression, intercurrent illness, and pre-analytical handling. This assay does not diagnose EBV disease or quantify virus on its own; rely on the total picture—symptoms, exam, serology, PCR, and routine labs—for decisions.