Immune response to EBV
The first general immune response in primary EBV infections is characterized by the production of heterophilic antibodies, a polyclonal mixture of low-avidity IgM antibodies.
The specific immune response to EBV is directed to various antigen complexes. The diagnostically significant antigens are the viral capsid antigen (VCA) and the EBV nuclear antigen (EBNA.

Diagnosis
In adult patients heterophilic antibodies can be measured with a satisfactory level of sensitivity in the Paul-Bunnell reaction whereas in children up to 10 years of age false negative results may occur. When the test for heterophilic antibodies is negative, the optimal combination of EBV serologic testing consists of the determination of 3 markers: IgM and IgG to VCA, and IgG to EBNA-1 in order to identify the state of infection: The presence of IgM and IgG antibodies specific to VCA indicates acute infection, while the presence of IgG antibodies specific to EBNA-1 indicate past infection.

Indications for EBV serology employing the medac EBV tests:
• Identification of acute and past EBV infections
• Seroepidemiological investigations

The following test systems are available:
• EBV EBNA-1-IgG-ELISA PKS medac (quantitative)
• EBV VCA-IgM-ELA Test PKS medac (qualitative)
• EBV VCA-IgG-ELISA PKS medac (quantitative)

For test procedure and test performance please refer to the corresponding Directions for use.