When interpreting results of EBV antibody testing, the following factors should be considered besides the test result:
- signs and symptoms
- medical history
A healthcare practitioner may consult a specialist in infectious diseases, specifically one who is experienced with EBV testing.
Examples of some results are provided in table below.
VCA-IgM | VCA-IgG | EA-D, IgG | EBNA, IgG | Possible Interpretation |
Negative | Negative | Negative | Negative | No infection, symptoms due to another cause, susceptible to EBV infection |
Positive | Positive | Negative | Negative | Early, primary infection |
Negative or positive | Positive | Positive | Negative | Active infection, though EA-D IgG may persist for life in about 20% of people |
Negative | Positive | Negative | Positive | Past infecion |
Negative | Positive | Positive | Positive | May indicate reactivation of virus |