The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis (IM). IM is an acute illness characterized clinically by sore throat, fever and lymphadenopathy. In children,
5-10% of primary EBV infections are asymptomatic. By adulthood, 90 95% of most populations have demonstrable EBV antibodies.
EBV specific serodiagnostic tests are not usually needed in typical cases of IM, since 90% of the cases are heterophile-positive.
For heterophile-negative cases and for diagnosis in atypical cases, confirmation of infection by EBV-specific serology is
useful. The serodiagnosis of IM is established with a single acute phase serum by the detection of elevated levels of IgM and IgG antibodies to VCA. Antibodies conversion or decline in VCAIgM antibodies (they usually disappear within 3-6 weeks after onset) and the emergence of EBNA antibodies (they arise from 3 weeks to several months after onset) can confirm diagnosis.
Previous EBV infections are identified by IgG Antibodies to VCA and to EBNA.
25 Jul