Description
Why It’s Done
Doctors may order the EBV VCA IgG test to:
• Confirm past EBV infection, especially if the patient has symptoms suggestive of a recent or prior infection.
• Determine immunity to EBV, as individuals with high levels of VCA IgG are typically immune.
• Differentiate between acute and past infection when combined with other EBV tests (such as EBV VCA IgM and EBV NA IgG).
• Monitor chronic EBV infections in immunocompromised individuals (e.g., organ transplant recipients).
• Help diagnose EBV-related conditions, such as infectious mononucleosis or chronic fatigue syndrome.
• Assess the risk of reactivation in individuals who have been previously infected.
Preparation
• No special preparation is usually required.
• Inform your doctor about any medications, especially immunosuppressants or antiviral drugs, as they could affect the test results.
• A blood sample is typically taken from a vein in your arm for this test


