Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpes virus 4, is a member of the herpes virus family. It is one of the most common human viruses. Even though Epstein-Barr virus isn’t a household name, you’ve probably been infected without knowing it. Lots of people carry the virus but don’t get sick. EBV is found all over the world. Most people get infected with EBV at some point in their lives. EBV spreads most commonly through bodily fluids, primarily saliva. It’s also sometimes called the “kissing disease,” because of one way you can spread it to someone else. You can also get EBV by sharing drinks and food, using the same cups, eating utensils, or toothbrushes or having contact with toys that children have drooled on. EBV can also spread through blood and semen during sexual contact, blood transfusions, and organ transplantations.
The first time you get infected with EBV (primary EBV infection) you can spread the virus for weeks and even before you have symptoms. Once the virus is in your body, it stays there in a latent (inactive) state. If the virus reactivates, you can potentially spread EBV to others no matter how much time has passed.
Infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) usually occurs in childhood or early adulthood. EBV is the cause of infectious mononucleosis (also termed “mono”), an illness associated with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, and sometimes an enlarged spleen. Studies show that up to 95% of all adults have antibodies against this common virus, meaning that they were infected at some point in their lives. Even though most infections with EBV go unnoticed or produce only very mild symptoms, in some cases, it can be associated with the development of serious conditions, including several types of cancer. Even mild or non-life-threatening infection with EBV can, occasionally, be associated with the development of serious complications from the infection. Although the virus typically targets lymphocytes, a particular blood cell involved in the immune response, almost all organs systems can ultimately be affected by EBV infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms of EBV infection can include
- Fatigue
- Fever
- swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- enlarged spleen
- swollen liver
- Lack of appetite
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Weakness and sore muscles
Test options
CMV/HHV6/EBV panel: Differentiation between these three Herpes family of Virus’s
Learn more about EBV
http://www.cdc.gov/epstein-barr/about-ebv.html
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/epstein-barr_virus_infection/article_em.htm
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=89105
