NIH conference. Epstein-Barr virus infections: biology, pathogenesis, and management

Ann Intern Med. 1993 Jan 1;118(1):45-58. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-118-1-199301010-00009.

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) encodes genes that ensure its persistence in human B lymphocytes. Some of the genes encourage B-cell proliferation; others are poised to evade or defeat immune recognition. Immune restraints on the virus, however, are typically so effective that most infections are never symptomatic. In contrast, acute infectious mononucleosis, a self-limited lymphoproliferative illness, is common in adolescents and young adults. Unbridled proliferative illnesses arise when cellular immunity is grossly defective. Treatment of EBV-associated syndromes is largely supportive. Antiviral drugs have no proven role except in patients with oral hairy leukoplakia. Vaccine development is technically feasible but is not considered a high priority for developed nations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • B-Lymphocytes / microbiology
  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic
  • Cell Transformation, Viral
  • Herpesviridae Infections* / immunology
  • Herpesviridae Infections* / microbiology
  • Herpesviridae Infections* / therapy
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human* / genetics
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human* / physiology
  • Humans
  • Infectious Mononucleosis / diagnosis
  • Infectious Mononucleosis / epidemiology
  • Infectious Mononucleosis / therapy
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / immunology
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / microbiology