Abstract:Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) establishes lifelong latency after primary infection and may cause a range of diseases. EBV has been linked to epithelial and lymphoid malignancies, including nasopharyngeal c...Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) establishes lifelong latency after primary infection and may cause a range of diseases. EBV has been linked to epithelial and lymphoid malignancies, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), lymphoproliferative disorders, and cerebral lymphoma in acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Most EBV infections are contracted by intimate contact between susceptible individuals and asymptomatic shedders of EBV. Acute EBV infection may be complicated by meningoencephalitis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, myocarditis, pneumonitis or haematological abnormalities. The major life-threatening complications of acute EBV infection are splenic rupture, airway obstruction and respiratory failure. The hallmark of acute EBV infection is the presence of atypical lymphocytes on a blood film. In acute infectious mononucleosis, immunoglobulin M ( IgM) to EBV viral capsid antigen (VCA) should be positive and anti- Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA) negative. In selected patients, testing IgA levels to VCA or diffuse EA may be useful in screening or monitoring patients with NPC. EBV serology is not helpful in the diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome. Acute EBV infection is managed with symptomatic treatment while monitoring for potential complications. (author abstract)Read More
Publication Year: 2012
Publication Date: 2012-04-05
Language: en
Type: reference-entry
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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Cited By Count: 1175
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