Epstein-Barr virus, or EBV, is a common human virus that causes infectious mononucleosis. It is a member of the herpes family of viruses, and most people are infected with the virus sometime in their lives. Merck.com states that in the United States, 95 percent of adults between the ages of 35 and 40, and 50 percent of all children under the age of 5 years, have had an EBV infection. Mononucleosis, or mono, is a contagious viral illness that attacks the lymph nodes in the neck and throat. This results in the swelling of the lymph nodes, a sore throat and fever. There are several complications that can arise from an Epstein-Barr virus infection.
Ruptured Spleen
Ruptured spleen is a complication of EBV. The spleen produces immune factors and filters out old red blood cells. It is well protected by the rib cage. However, when it enlarges for some reason, it extends down to the abdomen where it is no longer protected by the rib cage. Thus it becomes prone to being ruptured by abdominal trauma. According to DrSpock.com, almost half of the patients experiencing mononucleosis end up with an enlarged spleen. Merck.com reports that in some cases the liver can also get enlarged and some jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and eyes, occurs.
Increased Susceptibility to Infection and Anemia
According to DrSpock.com, a complication of EBV is the increased susceptibility to infection and anemia. In individuals with EBV, the ability of the bone marrow to produce red and white blood cells can be suppressed. This can lead to bleeding problems and increased susceptibility to infections, respectively. The virus could also lead to the destruction of red blood cells, which may break or lyse. This leads to the reduction of red blood cells, also known as anemia.
Central Nervous System Problems and Cancer
According to Merck.com, in unusual cases, EBV virus can cause complications in the central nervous system. It may cause inflammation of the lining of the brain, called meningitis; seizures; and inflammation of the brain itself, known as encephalitis. Merck.com also reports that it may also cause Guillain-Barre syndrome, which is manifested by weakness and paralysis that begins in the legs, then progresses to the arms and the head. The virus may also lead to the development of some forms of cancer such as Burkitt’s lymphoma, which is cancer of the lymphatic system, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, which is cancer of the nasopharynx, the uppermost region of the throat).
Inflammation and Breathing Problems
According to Drspock.com, EBV can also cause inflammation of other organs such as the kidneys, testes and the heart muscle. In some cases, Drspock.com reports that mononucleosis can affect breathing in children, and the usage of a breathing tube is needed, to allow for adequate oxygen flow.
