Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) - serology

Alternative Names/Synonyms	Serologic detection of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) antibodies (infectious mononucleosis)
Laboratory	Microbiology
Sub-section	Virology
Specimen Type	○ Whole blood ○ Serum

Other Information

○ IgM antibodies appear in serum of 85-90% of patients with infectious mononucleosis within 2-3 weeks of illness onset

Specimen Requirements (Tube Type)

○ Serum separator tube (clotted blood)
○ Neonatal blood min 1mL

Collection Requirements

○ Decontaminate skin with 70% alcohol followed by iodine or chlorhexidine, collect at least 5 mL of blood

Sample Stability

Refer to section Sample Processing / Delivery

Referral Laboratory

In-house EBV Viral Capsid Antigen IgM (VCA IgM) PHOL

Routine Turnaround Time

○ 24 hours for in house testing
○ Up to 5 days (referred out)

Laboratory Contact Information

416-586-4800 extension 4490

Approval Required

Sample Processing / Delivery

○ Label specimen container. Place specimens in biohazard bag and seal.

○ Specimens should be stored at room temperature (20-25˚C) after collection and transported to the UHN/SH Microbiology Laboratory ASAP.

○ The specimen will be referred* to the Public Health Ontario Laboratory for testing

* EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA IgG) and EBV nuclear antigen (EBNA-1 IgG) testing will be performed in house on specimens from transplant patients (living or cadaveric donors). Monospot testing (heterophile antibody – IgM) testing will be performed in house on request. The remaining specimens will be referred to Public Health Ontario Laboratory