Mononucleosis Tests

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

Why It Is Done

The monospot test is done to help diagnose a recent mono infection.

EBV antibody testing is also done to help diagnose mono. The EBV antibody test can help determine whether you have ever been infected with the virus and whether the infection has been recent.

EBV antibody testing is usually done when you have symptoms of infectious mononucleosis and a monospot test result is negative. EBV antibody testing may also be done to check for antibodies to EBV when a person has a disease or uses medicine that causes problems with the immune system.

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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
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