What is the purpose of an Epstein-Barr virus test?
The test is primarily used to detect whether first time infection (called primary infection) with the Epstein-Barr virus is currently occurring, or has occurred within a short period of time. The pattern of the antibodies detected can, however, tell if the person has never been infected with the Epstein-Barr virus, or if the infection occurred in the more distant past. These tests are mostly utilized in the diagnosis of Epstein-Barr virus-associated infectious mononucleosis when the more common diagnostic test, the heterophile antibody, is negative, or in situations where the infection is manifesting unusual symptoms. Therefore, the tests are often not needed in a situation where a doctor believes that a person has mononucleosis and the heterophile test (also called the monospot test) is positive. In addition, Epstein-Barr virus testing is usually not needed in the evaluation of a patient who has long-lasting fatigue, and may have the chronic fatigue syndrome. Initially, it was thought
