Epstein-Barr Virus VCA, IgM Antibody

Message

For Specimen Integrity during Extreme Weather see the “Lockbox Usage in Extreme Weather” document at the top of this page.

Test Code

EBM

Alias/See Also

8426;
EBV IgM;
EBV VCA IgM;

CPT Codes
86665

Preferred Specimen

1 mL serum (minimum 0.5 mL)

Instructions

SST or Red top: Avoid hemolysis. Invert a minimum of 5 times, then allow to clot in an upright position for 30 minutes. Centrifuge the the tube for at least 10 minutes. Keep tightly stoppered.

Transport Container

SST (speckled top), Red top , Plastic Vial (transfer) tube

Transport Temperature

Refrigerated (preferred)

Specimen Stability

Room Temperature = n/a
Refrigerated = 5 days
Frozen = at least 7 days

Methodology
Immunoassay

Setup Schedule

Monday, Wednesday, Friday
BS

Report Available

3 days

Clinical Significance

Primary infection by EBV causes infectious mononucleosis, usually a self-limiting disease in children and young adults. Infection with EBV can cause lymphoproliferative disorders including tumors. VCA-IgM typically appears approximately 4-6 weeks after initial infection and declines to undetectable in 1 month in young children and up to 3 months in others.

Performing Laboratory
CompuNet Clinical Laboratories, LLC
2308 Sandridge Drive
Moraine, OH 45439

Last Updated: December 7, 2021

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.