Mononucleosis Tests

EBV Antibody Test, Epstein-Barr Antibody Test, Monospot Test

What To Think About

• Since many people are exposed to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) during childhood, most adults have EBV antibodies of a type called IgG. The presence of the IgG type of antibody does not mean that you have had a recent infection with EBV.
• Rapid diagnostic tests for mono are not useful for children younger than 4 years.
• Although some people think that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may be related to chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), experts have found no evidence for this. The monospot test and the EBV antibody test are not used to diagnose or monitor CFS.
• Children, especially those younger than 2 years, are more likely than adults to have a negative monospot test, even when they have mono. This is called a false-negative result.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Douglas Dana Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: February 21, 2008
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease
© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.