Which specific blood tests diagnose chronic Epstein-Barr virus?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

If you have chronic Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, your doctor may have ordered blood tests to help with the diagnosis. Here are some common tests that may be done:

1. EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA) IgG and IgM: This test looks for antibodies to EBV in your blood. The presence of IgG antibodies indicates a past or current infection, while the presence of IgM antibodies suggests a recent infection.

2. EBV early antigen (EA) IgG: This test also looks for antibodies to EBV, but specifically for the early antigen, which is present during the initial phase of infection.

3. EBV nuclear antigen (EBNA) IgG: This test looks for antibodies to a protein called EBNA, which is produced by EBV-infected cells. The presence of EBNA antibodies indicates a chronic EBV infection.

4. Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures the number of red and white blood cells, as well as platelets, in your blood. Chronic EBV infection can sometimes cause changes in these cell counts.

5. Liver function tests: These tests measure the levels of enzymes and proteins in your blood that are produced by the liver. Chronic EBV infection can sometimes cause liver inflammation, which can be detected by these tests.

6. Bone marrow biopsy: In rare cases, a bone marrow biopsy may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis of chronic EBV infection, particularly if there are signs of bone marrow involvement or lymphoma associated with the infection.

   I hope this helps you.

   Thank you.

   Regards.