Sensitivity and specificity of Epstein-Barr virus IgA titer in the diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: A three-year institutional review

Abstract

Background. IgA antibody titers to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viral capsid antigen (EBV IgA-VCA) and to the EBV early antigen (EBV IgA-EA) are used to screen for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). This study evaluates the sensitivity and specificity of EBV IgA-VCA and EBV IgA-EA titers in screening patients for NPC and in those diagnosed with NPC at our institution. Methods. NPC status was determined for all patients who had their EBV IgA-VCA and EBV-IgA EA titers measured over a 3-year period, and the sensitivity and specificity were calculated. Results. Five thousand one hundred ninety-six samples were analyzed. NPC was diagnosed in 215 patients. The sensitivity and specificity of a raised EBV IgA-VCA titer (≥1:5) for diagnosing NPC were 89% and 80%, respectively, with a raised EbV IgA-EA titer (≥1:5) having a sensitivity and specificity of 63% and 97%, respectively. Conclusions. Although the EBV IgA-VCA titer is sensitive for the diagnosis of NPC, it should not be used as the sole means of screening for NPC in a population in which NPC is endemic. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.