Epstein Barr Virus EBV
The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) belongs to the herpes group of viruses that causes cold sores, genital herpes and glandular fever. It is passed from person to person by saliva, hence the term ‘kissing disease’ for glandular fever, and by the sharing of food and utensils. It is also possible for it to spread through sexual contact. However, carriers of the virus can pass it on without developing it themselves.
By the age of 30, nearly 90% of all adults will have developed antibodies to EBV indicating a full degree of immunity. After this age, an attack of glandular fever becomes very rare.
Once the virus enters the body, it multiplies in white blood cells and affects the respiratory system, lymphatic tissues, and glands in the neck, groin, armpit, bronchial tubes, spleen and liver. All the viruses in the herpes group have the capacity to stay in the body after causing an initial infection, and produce lifelong latent infections. This latent infection is usually kept in check by the host’s immune system. However, any compromise in immunity can lead to reactivation of the virus and a recurrent infection.
This infection can further disrupt immunity and lead to other diseases. Elevated EBV levels are commonly observed in a number of diseases characterised by disrupted immunity. Elevated levels of antibodies produced to other Herpes-group viruses such as measles and Cytomegalovirus are often also observed in patients who display elevated EBV levels. EBV should not be relied upon solely for diagnosis of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Who should choose the EBV test?
The EBV test would be applicable when patients present the following symptoms:
- Evidence of viral infection
- Sore throat and swollen glands
- Fever, fatigue / malaise
- Persistent ‘flu-like illness’ often transient in nature
- Aching muscles and joints
- Candidiasis
- Sensitivity to light and heat
- Depression
- Headaches
- Jaundice
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
What is being measured
The test uses a technique known as ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immuno-sorbant Assay), which measures the specific antibodies from a blood sample. Acombination of 4 different EBV markers is measured. The combination of patterns in the results , indicates past, current and re-activated reactions
Type of test
Blood
Before taking the test
Please refer to your test Instructions that will arrive with your test kit.
Turnaround time 10 Days
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