Interpretation of EBV IgG Level of 501
An Epstein-Barr virus IgG level of 501 indicates past infection with EBV, meaning you have been previously exposed to the virus and have developed immunity—this is a normal finding in the vast majority of adults and does not indicate active disease or require treatment. 1
Understanding Your Result
Your EBV IgG level of 501 is significantly elevated above the typical positive threshold (>8.0), which confirms prior exposure to Epstein-Barr virus. 1 This is an extremely common finding, as over 90% of normal adults have IgG antibodies to EBV antigens. 2
What This Result Means Clinically
Isolated elevated EBV IgG without clinical symptoms requires no treatment or further evaluation. 1
The presence of IgG antibodies alone indicates past exposure to EBV and does not suggest current active infection. 2
This result demonstrates that you have developed immunity following previous exposure, which may have occurred months to years ago. 1
Critical Distinction: Past vs. Active Infection
To determine whether you have an active or recent infection versus past infection, additional testing is essential:
VCA IgM antibodies indicate recent or acute infection when positive. 1
The absence of EBNA antibodies combined with positive VCA IgM suggests primary acute infection. 3, 1
A positive EBV IgG result without accompanying IgM antibodies generally indicates past infection rather than acute or recent infection. 1
When Further Evaluation Is Needed
Additional testing beyond your isolated IgG result is warranted only in specific circumstances:
If you have current symptoms suggestive of infectious mononucleosis (fever, sore throat, fatigue, lymphadenopathy), order a complete EBV antibody panel including VCA IgM, VCA IgG, and EBNA antibodies. 3
In immunocompromised patients (transplant recipients, HIV-infected individuals, those with congenital immunodeficiencies), quantitative EBV viral load testing by nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) is recommended rather than relying solely on serology. 3
If suspected chronic active EBV infection (persistent mononucleosis-like symptoms with unusual antibody patterns), viral load measurement and additional serologic testing are necessary. 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not interpret an isolated elevated IgG as indicating active infection—this is the most common misinterpretation and leads to unnecessary anxiety and testing. 1
Approximately 5-10% of patients who have been infected with EBV fail to develop antibodies to the EBNA antigen, which can complicate interpretation if a full panel is ordered. 2, 3
False positive IgM results can occur with other infections (such as CMV) or activated immune systems, so clinical correlation is essential. 2