Epstein-Barr Virus Viral Capsid Antigen (VCA) Antibody (IgG)
Quest Diagnostics
Sample type: Serum
Requires fasting: No
Phlebotomy required
Details
This test is particularly important for individuals showing symptoms of infectious mononucleosis or for those at risk of EBV-related lymphoproliferative disorders.
- Epstein-barr virus viral capsid antigen (vca) antibody (igg)
Estimated days for results: Results should be available in 2 - 5 business days after the sample is collected
Details
Epstein-Barr Virus Viral Capsid Antigen (VCA) Antibody (IgG) - This test is used to detect a primary infection of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which often leads to infectious mononucleosis. This condition is common in children and young adults and usually resolves on its own. However, EBV can also cause more serious lymphoproliferative disorders, including tumors. The presence of VCA-IgG antibodies, which are typically found at the onset of symptoms, indicates a past or current infection and these antibodies remain in the body for life. If VCA-IgG antibodies are not present, it may mean the individual is susceptible to an EBV infection.
What patients is this test right for?
This test is particularly important for individuals showing symptoms of infectious mononucleosis or for those at risk of EBV-related lymphoproliferative disorders.
Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fatigue
- Swollen spleen or liver
What type of sample is required for this test?
1 mL serum. A blood sample is needed.
2–4 business days
U/mL Interpretation
<18.00 Negative
18.00-21.99 Equivocal
>21.99 Positive
<18.00 Negative
18.00-21.99 Equivocal
>21.99 Positive
Blood Draw Options with Fullscript
Fullscript offers several convenient phlebotomy options to complete your lab testing:
Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Centers (PSC)
- Location: Visit a nearby Quest Diagnostics Patient Service Center.
- Cost: $10 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
- Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here. Appointments are recommended to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but may experience delays. Aim to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment.
- Collection Instructions:
- Bring a valid ID.
- Bring your digital or printed requisition form, available in the Labs tab of your Fullscript account.
- Check-in: Scan the QR code from your confirmation email or follow kiosk instructions.
- More Info: Quest Diagnostics blood draw guide
Getlabs Mobile Phlebotomy
- Location: Sample collection at your home or office.
- Cost: $85 sample collection fee (paid during lab order checkout).
- Availability: Available in most locations – enter your ZIP code during checkout to confirm.
- Scheduling: Schedule your appointment here through your Fullscript account.
- Collection Instructions:
- Have your digital or printed requisition form and valid ID ready.
- Your phlebotomist will contact you by phone to coordinate arrival.
- More Info: Getlabs blood draw guide
Specimen
- Preferred Specimen(s): 1 mL serum
- Alternative: NA
- Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
- Collection Instructions: NA
Storage and shipping instructions
- Transport Container: Transport tube
- Transport Temperature: Room Temperature
- Specimen Stability:
- Room temperature: 4 days
- Refrigerated: 7 days
- Frozen: 30 days
- Reject Criteria: NA
State restrictions:
Patient can't order this test if they are located in Hawaii, Puerto Rico, New Jersey, New York, or Rhode Island
