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
