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Microbiology

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EBV

Tests available:

  • Quantitative PCR
  • EBNA IgG level (if negative VCA IgG and IgM are added)

Sample type

Quantitative PCR:

EDTA whole blood

IgG and IgM levels:

Serum

Specimen requirements

Quantitative PCR:

Blood in EDTA tube

IgG and IgM levels:

Blood in SST yellow top tube

Minimum volume

Quantitative PCR - 0.5ml

IgG and IgM levels - 1ml

Frequency of test

Quantitative PCR:

Processed on Tuesdays and Thursdays

Urgent samples can usually be processed more quickly on discussion with Microbiology medical staff

IgG and IgM levels:

Monday to Saturday

Turnaround time

  • Quantitative PCR - 6 days
  • EBV EBNA IgG - one day
  • EBV VCA IgG - 2 days
  • EBV VCA IgM - 2 days

What to request on EPR

EBV serology; Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) viral load PCR

Last reviewed:17 February 2023

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