Definition
Epstein-Barr virus test is a blood test to detect antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigens.
Alternative Names
EBV antibody test; Monospot; Heterophile agglutination testHow the test is performed
Blood is drawn from a vein, usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic. An elastic band is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and cause the vein to swell with blood.
A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the band is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.
In infants or young children:
The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. A bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any bleeding.
An antibody defends the body against bacteria, viruses, fungus, or other foreign bodies (antigens). Microorganism can stimulate the body to produce these antibodies during active infection. Antibody production increases during the course of infection.
In the first stages of an illness, little antibody may be detected. For this reason, serology tests (tests performed on serum, the fluid portion of blood that contains antibodies) are often repeated 10 days - 2 weeks or more after the initial sample. In the laboratory, the antibodies react with antigens in specific ways that can be used to confirm the identity of a microorganism.
How to prepare for the test
There is no special preparation for the test.
How the test will feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the test is performed
The test is performed to detect an acute (currently active) infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
Normal Values
No antibodies to EBV will be detected from people who have never been infected with EBV.
What abnormal results mean
The monospot test (one of the EBV tests) will be positive only during the acute phase of EBV infection. Other more sophisticated and rarely used antibody tests can tell the difference between acute and past infection with the virus.
What the risks are
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting or feeling light-headed
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
- Multiple punctures to locate veins
Special considerations
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
| • | Antibody |
| • | Mononucleosis |
| • | Acute |
| • | Mononucleosis spot test |
Reviewed By: Kenneth Wener, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
