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EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen

EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen

Also referred as
Epstein Barr Virus
Early Antigen IgG
For men & women
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The EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen is a blood test that detects immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against the early antigen (EA) of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). It may help identify an active or recent infection as well as reactivation of the virus.

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Understanding EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a common virus that spreads through saliva and causes infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono. Most individuals are exposed to EBV at some point in their lives, and while many have mild or no symptoms, some experience fatigue, sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

The EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen test detects the presence of IgG antibodies directed against the early antigen complex of EBV (a part of virus seen early in the infection). These antibodies usually appear early in the infection and may persist or reappear during viral reactivation. A positive EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen result may suggest a recent or active EBV infection or possible reactivation, especially when interpreted alongside other EBV antibody tests (such as VCA IgG and EBNA). This helps differentiate such cases from past infections, which typically show EBV-VCA IgG positivity without EA antibodies. Understanding the stage of EBV infection is important for proper clinical evaluation and monitoring, especially in suspected cases of infectious mononucleosis.

Doctors may recommend this test when ongoing EBV activity is suspected, such as in cases of long-lasting fatigue, unexplained fever, or swollen lymph nodes. It may also be advised for individuals with weakened immune systems who are at higher risk of EBV reactivation. This test is usually performed alongside other EBV antibody tests to provide a more complete diagnostic overview.

No special preparation is required for the EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen test. However, a brief clinical history is preferred during sample collection. Inform the doctor about all the medications and supplements currently being taken, as some of them may affect the test results, potentially requiring dosage adjustments or temporary discontinuation before the test.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Do not self-medicate and always consult a doctor to understand the test results correctly. 

Please note: This is an outsourced test. The sample for this test is collected by TATA 1MG and processed at a NABL accredited partnered lab.

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What does EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen measure?

The EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen measures the presence of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies directed against the Early Antigen (EA) complex of the Epstein-Barr Virus. These antibodies typically appear during the early phase of infection, shortly after the initial immune response begins. Unlike IgM antibodies, which rise quickly and decline within weeks, EBV-EA IgG antibodies develop slightly later but usually remain detectable for a few months.

In most cases, EBV-EA IgG antibodies often decline within a few months (commonly 3–6 months) after the primary infection resolves, suggesting reduced viral activity. However, in some individuals, these antibodies may persist for longer periods or reappear at elevated levels if the virus reactivates later, particularly during immune suppression, often suggests reduced active viral activity.

Therefore, the presence of EBV-EA IgG antibodies may suggest a recent or active EBV infection or viral reactivation, rather than a past, fully resolved infection. This helps differentiate it from EBV-VCA IgG antibodies, which usually appear later and typically remain positive for life, indicating past exposure. However, results should always be interpreted together with other EBV markers (such as VCA IgM, VCA IgG, and EBNA IgG) and the person’s symptoms for accurate clinical evaluation.

FAQs related to EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen

It is a blood test that checks for IgG antibodies against the early antigen complex of Epstein-Barr Virus. These antibodies often appear early in infection and may also be present during viral reactivation.
This test is used to check for the presence of IgG antibodies against the early antigen of EBV, which may appear during the early phase of infection or during reactivation. It is often used to help diagnose infectious mononucleosis.
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm and analyzed in a lab to detect EBV EA IgG antibodies.
No, the EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen test is generally safe with minimal risks. You may feel slight discomfort, bruising, or swelling at the blood draw site, which resolves on its own.
A positive result may suggest a recent EBV infection or a reactivation of the virus. However, it should be interpreted along with other EBV antibody test results and clinical symptoms for an accurate diagnosis.
EBV-VCA IgM appears early in infection and usually indicates a recent infection. EBV-VCA IgG appears later and remains for life, showing past infection. EBV-EA IgG may be present during active infection or reactivation; it can also persist in some individuals
Testing for several EBV antibodies (such as VCA IgM, VCA IgG, EA IgG, and EBNA IgG) helps determine the stage of infection, whether it is recent, past, or reactivated.
No fasting is required. However, inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.
EBV is mainly spread through saliva, which is why infectious mononucleosis is sometimes called the “kissing disease.” It can also spread through sharing utensils, drinks, or close contact.
Yes. The virus stays dormant in the body and can reactivate, especially in people with weakened immune systems. Reactivation may not always cause symptoms, but can be detected through certain antibody tests like EBV-EA IgG.
There is currently no specific cure for EBV infection. Treatment for infectious mononucleosis focuses on relieving symptoms, such as rest, staying hydrated, and taking medications to reduce fever or discomfort. Most people recover fully with supportive care.
To reduce the risk of spreading EBV, avoid sharing drinks, food, eating utensils, or personal items with someone who has an active infection. Avoid kissing or close contact while they are contagious, and practice good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water.
Most people are infected with EBV only once in their lifetime. After the first infection, the virus stays dormant in the body. While it can reactivate later, this usually does not cause symptoms in healthy individuals. However, in people with weakened immune systems, reactivation may cause illness.
Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.
Content created by
Written by:
Shweta Prakash
MSc, BSc
Reviewed by:
Dr. Swati Gupta (Anand)
MD Lab Medicine, MBBS
Want to know moreRead our editorial policy
Last Updated17th Feb 2026

EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen test price for other cities

Price inBangaloreRs. 1889
Price inMumbaiRs. 1879
Price inNew DelhiRs. 1969
Price inGurgaonRs. 1969
Price inHyderabadRs. 1709

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EBV IgG antibody to Early Antigen