Blood test for glandular fever (Epstein-Barr virus, EBV)
This antibody test analyzer if you have signs of an ongoing or past infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes glandular fever, also known as mononucleosis. The blood test measures EBV-specific antibodies and can provide information about whether the infection is likely current or whether you have previously had EBV and developed immunity.
Test for ongoing EBV infection – IgM
In a new or active primary infection with EBV, the body produces IgM antibodies as an early part of the immune response. These antibodies can often be detected early in the infection and can be used to assess whether the infection may be ongoing. An active EBV infection can cause symptoms such as sore throat, fever, severe fatigue and swollen lymph nodes.
Please note that the analyzing laboratory has not always performed or reported analyses of IgM to prove the presence of EBNA-IgG. This is because EBNA-IgG normally develops only after the acute phase has passed, several weeks to months after primary infection, and then persists for life. A positive EBNA-IgG therefore strongly suggests a previous EBV infection, which means that in many cases IgM analysis does not provide additional diagnostic information.
Check for previous EBV infection – EBNA-IgG
The test includes analysis of EBNA-IgG (Epstein-Barr Nuclear Antigen IgG), an antibody that develops after the acute phase of EBV infection. A positive EBNA-IgG result indicates that you have had EBV in the past and that your body has developed a long-term immunological memory against the virus. Since these antibodies normally persist for life, EBNA-IgG is used as a marker of past infection.
Why is it important to test for EBV antibodies?
Glandular fever is a common viral disease that is primarily spread through saliva and is sometimes called the "kissing disease". The disease mainly affects teenagers and young adults, but can also occur in children and the elderly. By analyzing EBV-specific antibodies, such as IgM and EBNA-IgG, it is possible to assess whether the infection is likely to be ongoing or past.
The result can help you understand the course of the disease and provide guidance on recovery, possible medical follow-up, and when it may be wise to seek care. Antibody tests alone, however, cannot determine exactly whether or for how long you are contagious.
How long is glandular fever contagious?
Glandular fever caused by the Epstein-Barr virus can be contagious as long as the virus is shed in saliva. Infectivity is often highest at the beginning of the infection, but virus can sometimes continue to be shed for several weeks or months after the start of the infection, even after symptoms have subsided. Good hygiene and avoiding sharing things like glasses, cutlery or toothbrushes can reduce the risk of spreading the infection.
Do you suspect you have glandular fever?
If you have symptoms such as fever, sore throat, severe fatigue and swollen lymph nodes – especially if you have recently been in contact with someone who has had glandular fever – a blood test for EBV antibodies may be useful. The diagnosis can be supported by analyzing EBV-specific antibodies, especially IgM when a current infection is suspected and EBNA-IgG as a sign of a previous infection.
In most cases, EBV is a self-limiting viral infection where the body heals the infection on its own. However, symptoms may persist for several weeks, and in case of severe discomfort, prolonged fever, abdominal pain, impaired general condition or suspicion of complications, you should seek medical care for a medical assessment.
