IgG antibodies to EBV (Epstein barr virus) capsid antigen – the test indicates a history of contact, active infection or viral relapse. Epstein-Barr virus causes an acute infection called infectious mononucleosis. The clinical spectrum of symptoms caused by the virus is very broad, with fever, angina, and enlargement of lymph nodes and spleen.

IgG antibodies to Epstein Barr virus (EBV) capsid antigen are detected in weeks 2-4 of illness. A blood test shows an elevated monocyte count, Ig G or Ig M. An increase in IgG antibodies to the EBV capsid antigen (Epstein barr) without an increase in Ig M indicates that the disease has been contracted in the past and that immunity has developed. The increase in this indicator lasts a lifetime.

Signs of the disease

Often the onset of the disease is non-specific: general malaise, extreme fatigue, lack of appetite, chills, muscle aches. This is followed by a temperature rise, a cold, a sore throat and headache, and “breaking” bones. The temperature may be high for a few days, then drop and never rise above 38°C. The fever lasts from 2-7 to 20 days. There may be small reddish spots on the face, torso and limbs. One of the most common symptoms is enlargement of many lymph nodes, especially in the neck, armpits and, less commonly, groin. The throat and tonsils are red, and greyish or greenish plaques appear on the tonsils. There may also be inflammation of the gums and oral mucosa. Fatigue can persist for several months.
In children under 5 years of age, EBV infection usually does not cause symptoms, but it can cause uncharacteristic symptoms such as irritability, abdominal pain due to enlargement of mesenteric lymph nodes or the spleen, and signs of upper respiratory tract infection. Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis rarely last longer than 4 months, but if it persists for more than 6 months, it is called chronic EBV infection. It is not recommended to do sports or heavy work for 2 months after the illness.

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