Epstein-Barr Virus

Question 1

What is the etiology of the Epstein Barr Virus (EBV)?

Answer 1

VERY common member of the herpes virus (aka. Mono)

Question 2

When are people the most susceptible to EBV (age range)?

Answer 2

12-15 months, once maternal antibodies wear off.

Adolescents/young adults “mono” or “kissing disease”

Question 3

How is EBV transmitted?

Answer 3

Saliva “kissing disease”

Question 4

What is the incubation period for EBV?

Answer 4

4-6 weeks

Question 5

Once infected, does the virus go away or remain present life-long?

Answer 5

Life-long

Question 6

What other conditions is EBV associated with? (both are rare)

Answer 6

Burkitt’s lymphoma and Nasopharyngeal cancer

Question 7

What are the classic symptoms associated with EBV?

Answer 7

Fever, sore throat, pharyngeal erythema, lymphadenopathy, fatigue.
Patients look and feel “really bad”
Occasionally will have splenomegaly or hepatic involvement.

Question 8

How long do symptoms last for EBV?

Answer 8

1-4 weeks

Question 9

Is EBV associated with negative outcomes in pregnant women?

Answer 9

No.

Question 10

How do you diagnose a patient with EBV?

Answer 10

Clinically, based on age and symptoms.

Can also look for elevated WBC or a positive “mono spot” test (looking for antibodies, best after 5 days of symptoms)

Question 11

What is the treatment for a patient with EBV?

Answer 11

Supportive

Question 12

How long does it take for an EBV illness to resolve?

Answer 12

1-2 months, if longer than 6 months is considered chronic.