Comparison of plasma Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA levels and serum EBV immunoglobulin A/virus capsid antigen antibody titers in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma

The results suggest that plasma EBV DNA detection is a more sensitive and specific marker than the serum IgA/VCA titer for the diagnosis and monitoring of patients with NPC. These findings provide convincing evidence for the use of plasma EBV DNA measurements for the early diagnosis and staging of NPC as well as for monitoring recurrence and metastasis of this tumor.