EBV Elispot (2 antigens: lytic + latent)

EBV EliSpot (2 Antigens: Lytic + Latent)
AONM/ArminLabs

"AONM have checklists that help identify the most likely viral or bacterial infections to test for, based on patient symptoms. Please see https://aonm.org/checklists-for-testing/ or contact AONM at 03331 210305 or email info@aonm.org. We also offer different viral and bacterial panels, and are always happy to advise on testing options."

Please note this test requires a blood draw, please organise a phlebotomist for your patient. A return courier fee of £50 is included in this test price

Description:
This test reflects the current EBV (Epstein-Barr Virus) activity – whether recent, chronic or reactivated – by targeting both lytic and latent antigens.

Epstein Barr Virus (obligate intracellular), double stranded DNA virus, one of the Herpes viruses, responsible for glandular fever, sometimes also called “mononucleosis”.

It has shown to be associated with (in some cases) ME, Chronic Fatigue, autoimmune diseases (dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren´s syndrome), Multiple Sclerosis, cancer (Hodgkin´s lymphoma, Burkitt´s lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma), conditions associated with HIV (hairy leucoplakia, central nervous system lymphomas), among others.

The EliSpot is highly sensitive and can detect even one single EBV-reactive T-cell. With detection levels that can be as low as one cell in 100,000, the EliSpot is one of the most sensitive cellular assays available.

Methodology:
EBV EliSpot (2 Antigens: Lytic + Latent) (T-Cell-Spot / IGRA: Interferon-Gamma-Release Assay)

When should I use:
When a recent or chronic case of EBV infection is suspected, particularly to differentiate between active (lytic) and dormant (latent) phases of the virus.

Other details:
AONM has checklists that help identify the most likely viral or bacterial infections to test for, based on patient symptoms. Please see https://aonm.org/checklists-for-testing/ or contact AONM at 03331 210305 or email info@aonm.org. We also offer different viral and bacterial panels and are always happy to advise on testing options. The EliSpot can be helpful when monitoring therapies.

The EliSpot should usually become negative about 4 to 8 weeks after the completion of an effective therapy.

Lytic Antigens:

• Description: Lytic antigens are associated with the active, replicative phase of EBV infection. During this phase, the virus is actively producing new virus particles and infecting new cells.
• Symptoms Associated: Symptoms of active EBV infection may include severe sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. This phase is often associated with conditions like infectious mononucleosis or glandular fever.

Latent Antigens:

• Description: Latent antigens are associated with the dormant phase of EBV infection. During this phase, the virus remains in the body in a dormant state, residing in certain types of cells, particularly B lymphocytes. The virus does not actively replicate but can reactivate later.
• Symptoms Associated: Latent EBV infection is usually asymptomatic. However, reactivation can lead to symptoms similar to the initial infection, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Significance of Testing Both Phases:

• Differentiation: By testing for both lytic and latent antigens, the EliSpot can help differentiate between acute (active) and chronic (latent) stages of EBV infection.
• Treatment and Monitoring: Understanding whether EBV is in the lytic or latent phase can guide treatment decisions and help monitor the effectiveness of therapies, particularly in chronic or reactivated infections.

Biomarkers

EBV-EliSpot:

EBV lytic antigen + EBV latent antigen

Specification

Specimen Type:

3 x CPDA tube

Vitality of T-cells for LTT: Up to 3 days

Phlebotomy Type:

Blood draw at home or in a clinical setting