EBV

I have been very stressed (most I have ever been) for about 4-5 months. Ever since I got a jock itch rash I was a nervous wreck. (Hypo) Anyway, since then I have been very stressed always looking & finding for new symptoms. I have been to many Dr.s & all was ok. I went to the Dr. 2 days ago and asked for a CBC & he also took blood to see why I am always tired. (I am normal tired not exhausted tired) Anyway, he told me that I have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. My blood tests show everything normal. WBC-5.9 / RBC-5.19 / PLATELET COUNT-204 / TOTAL LYMPHOCYTES-30.2 TOTAL NEUTROPHILS-62.8 These and the rest are all in normal range. I took a Epstein Barr VCA IGG AB and that cam back high at 3.54. What do you think?  The EBV CAPSID  AB (IGG.M) came back negative at 0.07. I do not have any fevers, soar throat or anything like that. I am a healthy 36 year old male. I do not smoke, do drugs, straight, and starting to work out & eat right. My cholesterol was very high at 276 with a LDL of 185. In regards to the EBV I also heard that people who were exposed to the virus at a younger age can test high levels as well. What do you think Dr.? Can my immune system be fine with this?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The positive IgG test suggest that you have had Epstein Barr virus (mononucleosis) in the past.  The negative IgM test does not suggest recent infection - thus, I would agree with your physician's assessment.  

Other things to test for would be a thyroid test, vitamin B12 level and an ANA test (looking for rheumatological disease).  If negative, you can consider a neurological referral for another opinion.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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