The marker "EBNA1 (IgG)" is a crucial indicator for assessing neurological health and potential autoimmune conditions affecting the nervous system. EBNA1 stands for Epstein-Barr Nuclear Antigen 1, and the IgG designation refers to Immunoglobulin G, a type of antibody. This particular marker is significant because it helps detect past infections with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is known to be associated with a variety of neurological disorders. EBV is a common virus, and while it often causes mild symptoms or goes unnoticed in many people, its connection to neurological conditions can be significant in a subset of individuals. The presence of IgG antibodies against EBNA1 indicates that a person has been infected with EBV at some point in their life, and their immune system has produced antibodies to fight off the virus. In the context of the NeuralZoomer Plus panel, testing for EBNA1 (IgG) antibodies helps healthcare providers understand whether a past EBV infection might be contributing to neurological symptoms or conditions. This information is valuable for developing a comprehensive picture of a patient's neurological health and tailoring treatment approaches to address any identified autoimmune or viral-related issues.

EBV-VCA, IgG is an antibody (protein) that is produced by the body in an immune response to an Epstein-Barr virus antigen.

EBV-VCA, IgM is an antibody (protein) that is produced by the body in an immune response to an Epstein-Barr virus antigen.

EBV stands for Epstein-Barr virus.

Epstein-Barr virus is a virus that typically causes a mild to moderate illness. Blood tests for Epstein-Barr virus detect antibodies to EBV in the blood and help establish a diagnosis of EBV infection.

VCA stands for Viral capsid antigen.

– Anti-VCA IgM appears early in EBV infection and usually disappears within four to six weeks.

– Anti-VCA IgG appears in the acute phase of EBV infection, peaks at two to four weeks after onset, declines slightly then persists for the rest of a person’s life.

The EBV VCA-IgG test checks for IgG antibodies against the viral capsid antigen of Epstein–Barr virus, which usually stay positive for life after infection and show past exposure but not necessarily an active illness. A negative result (<18.0 U/mL) suggests no prior infection or very early disease before antibodies form; equivocal results (18.0–21.9 U/mL) are borderline and usually require repeat testing; and a positive result (≥22.0 U/mL) shows previous EBV infection, which is normal for most adults. Because this test alone cannot tell if an infection is recent, it is often paired with other EBV markers (VCA-IgM, EBNA-IgG, ± EA-IgG) and your symptoms to clarify whether you have a new, past, or possibly reactivated infection.

EBV VCA IgM measures early antibodies your immune system makes against Epstein–Barr virus’s viral capsid antigen and helps identify a recent/acute infection. VCA IgM typically appears soon after symptoms begin and usually becomes undetectable within 4–8 weeks; it’s best interpreted with other markers—VCA IgG, EBNA-1 IgG, and sometimes EA IgG or EBV PCR. A positive VCA IgM (especially with VCA IgG positive and EBNA-1 IgG negative) supports a recent infection; an equivocal result should be repeated in 1–2 weeks with a full EBV panel; a negative VCA IgM does not rule out very early infection or other mono-like illnesses (e.g., CMV, strep), so follow-up testing may be needed. Isolated or persistent IgM positivity can be false-positive—confirm with repeat/alternate assays and clinical context. Cutoffs and units vary by lab; always interpret alongside the reference range on your report, your symptoms, and your clinician’s guidance.

If the result of the Epstein-Barr Virus Early Antigen IgG (EBV EA IgG) test falls within the reference range, it generally indicates one of the following scenarios:

1. No Active or Recent EBV Infection: A result within the reference range typically suggests that there is no active or recent infection by the Epstein-Barr Virus. EBV EA IgG antibodies are usually present during the acute phase of an EBV infection. Their absence or low levels within the normal range implies that the individual is likely not in the acute phase of EBV infection.

2. Past Infection: Individuals who have had an EBV infection in the past and have since recovered will often have EBV EA IgG levels within the reference range. After the acute phase of the infection, these antibody levels usually decline and may fall back into the reference range.

3. Latency: EBV can remain latent in the body after the initial infection. A reference range result for EBV EA IgG indicates that the virus is not actively replicating or causing active symptoms, consistent with a latent or dormant state of the virus.

4. Possible Immunity: If a person has been exposed to EBV in the past, they may have developed immunity to the virus. In such cases, other types of EBV antibodies (like VCA IgG or EBNA IgG) might be present, while EA IgG remains within the reference range, indicating a past infection and possible immunity.

5. Early or Very Late Stage of Infection: In very early stages of an EBV infection or in cases where a significant amount of time has passed since the infection, EA IgG levels might still be within the reference range. This is because it takes time for these antibodies to develop post-infection, and they tend to decline in later stages.

It's important to interpret these results in the context of other EBV-specific antibody tests (like VCA IgM, VCA IgG, and EBNA IgG) and the clinical presentation of the patient. The EBV antibody profile, including the EA IgG result, provides a more comprehensive understanding of the individual's infection status. A healthcare provider can best interpret what this result means in the context of an individual's symptoms, history, and overall health.

The EBV Early Antigen-Diffuse (EA-D) IgG test looks for antibodies that often appear during the early phase of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection, usually fading within 3–6 months, though about 20–30% of healthy people may continue to have them long-term without active disease. Because of this, EA-D IgG alone cannot confirm active infection or reactivation and must be interpreted together with other EBV markers like VCA IgM, VCA IgG, and EBNA-1 IgG, as well as your symptoms and timing of illness. A positive EA-D IgG result may support—but does not prove—a recent or active EBV infection, while a negative result does not rule out prior exposure. If results are unclear or don’t match your clinical picture, doctors often recommend repeat testing or EBV DNA PCR for clarity.

The EBV Early Antigen Ab, IgG is a valuable biomarker in the diagnosis and management of Epstein-Barr virus infections. By understanding the presence and levels of these antibodies, healthcare providers can better determine the phase of EBV infection and provide appropriate treatment strategies. If you suspect an EBV infection or are experiencing prolonged symptoms, consult your healthcare provider about testing for EBV Early Antigen Ab, IgG.

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.

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.

The Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigen Antibody (EBV Nuclear Ag Ab) test is a significant component of the Epstein-Barr Virus VCA (Viral Capsid Antigen) Antibody Panel, playing a critical role in diagnosing and understanding the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection. EBV, a widespread virus, is known for causing infectious mononucleosis and is linked to several other conditions, including certain cancers and autoimmune diseases. The EBV Nuclear Ag Ab test specifically detects antibodies developed against the nuclear antigen of the Epstein-Barr Virus, which are antibodies the immune system produces in response to EBV's nuclear material.

EBV EBNA-1 IgG is an antibody that usually appears weeks to a few months after a first Epstein–Barr virus infection and then persists for life, so a positive result generally indicates past infection, not a current one. On its own it can’t time an illness; clinicians interpret EBNA-1 IgG with other markers—VCA IgM and VCA IgG (± EA-D IgG or EBV DNA PCR). Typical patterns: VCA IgM (+) + VCA IgG (+) + EBNA-1 IgG (−) suggests recent/acute infection, while VCA IgM (−) + VCA IgG (+) + EBNA-1 IgG (+) indicates remote/past infection. Early testing may show EBNA-1 IgG negative before it develops, and a small subset never makes measurable EBNA-1 IgG—so repeat testing or PCR can help when results and symptoms don’t align. Always interpret using your lab’s reference range and your clinical context.

The marker EBV PCR Whole Blood LOG signifies the level of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) DNA in whole blood, measured using a quantitative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) method. The value is reported both in international units per milliliter (IU/ml) and as a logarithmic value (LOG). This measurement indicates the viral load of EBV present in the blood.

EBV is associated with various diseases, including infectious mononucleosis and certain cancers. Quantitative PCR allows precise measurement of viral DNA levels, aiding in monitoring EBV-related diseases.

The reported value helps clinicians assess the severity of infection or disease progression.

This test is intended to be used for the quantitative detection of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA and as an aid in the diagnosis and management of EBV infections.

→ This test is only used as an aid in monitoring EBV-related disease.

→ It is not appropriate for the diagnosis of mononucleosis; order serological testing Epstein-Barr Viral Ab Panel instead.

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) VCA IgG is a crucial antibody tested in the Epstein-Barr Virus VCA (Viral Capsid Antigen) Antibody Panel, commonly used to diagnose and monitor EBV infections. EBV, a member of the herpesvirus family and one of the most common human viruses, is known for causing infectious mononucleosis and has been linked to various forms of cancer and autoimmune diseases. The EBV VCA IgG test specifically measures the IgG antibodies that the immune system produces in response to the viral capsid antigen of the Epstein-Barr Virus. These antibodies typically develop during the acute or recent phase of an EBV infection and can remain in the system for life, providing long-term immunity.

The Epstein-Barr Virus Viral Capsid Antigen IgM (EBV VCA IgM) test is a vital part of the Epstein-Barr Virus VCA Antibody Panel, a key diagnostic tool for identifying EBV infections. EBV, a common virus known for causing infectious mononucleosis, also has links to certain cancers and autoimmune disorders. The EBV VCA IgM test specifically measures the IgM antibodies that the immune system produces in response to the viral capsid antigen of EBV, which are among the first antibodies to appear following an infection with the virus. These antibodies typically signify an acute or recent EBV infection.

A negative EBV VCA IgM result means that your immune system is not currently producing IgM antibodies against the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). IgM antibodies are the body’s earliest response to a new or recent EBV infection. Because they appear quickly and disappear within weeks to a few months, a negative result typically indicates:

• You do not have a current or recent EBV (mononucleosis) infection, and

• Your symptoms are unlikely to be caused by an acute EBV infection.

However, a negative EBV VCA IgM does not rule out past EBV exposure. Most adults have been infected with EBV at some point, and evidence of past infection is detected through EBV VCA IgG and EBNA IgG—not IgM.

When further testing may still be needed

Your healthcare provider may order additional EBV markers if:

• You have strong symptoms of mononucleosis (fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands)

• Your illness is early and IgM antibodies have not yet developed

• You have atypical symptoms and other infections need to be ruled out

Follow-up testing may include:

• EBV VCA IgG (past or current infection)

• EBNA IgG (past infection)

• EBV Early Antigen (EA) antibodies (possible reactivation or acute infection in some cases)

Summary

A negative EBV VCA IgM result strongly suggests that you are not experiencing a recent or active EBV infection. Additional antibody testing can help determine whether you’ve had EBV in the past or whether another cause may explain your symptoms.

EBV-VCA, IgG is an antibody (protein) that is produced by the body in an immune response to an Epstein-Barr virus antigen.