Synonyms

Clinical Indications

To demonstrate the presence of the antibody responsible for causing infectious mononucleosis.

Request Form

Combined Pathology Blood form (Yellow/Black)

Availability

On request

Specific Criteria

None

Turnaround Time

Usually within two days

Specimen

Plasma

Volume

3mL or 7mL

Container

Purple top (EDTA) tube.

Collection

Samples should be transported to laboratory immediately.

Lab. Handling

Sample must be tested within 72 hours of receipt in laboratory

Causes for Rejection

Unlabelled sample. Not meeting specific criteria for analysis. Delay in sample reaching laboratory. Underfilled, clotted or haemolysed samples.

Interpretation

Infectious mononucleosis or glandular fever is caused by the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) The bodies response to EBV is to produce heterophile antibodies, which are usually present between 4 to 6 days from onset of infection and may last for up to 5 months. Positive results are obtained in around 86% of cases of infectious mononucleosis. Patients with continued symptoms and negative heterophile antibody tests should be re-tested as occasionally the antibody is not produced for several weeks.