Epstein Barr virus is a very common viral infection that affects up to 50 percent of children and 95 percent of all adults in the United States. It is the herpes virus that causes mononucleosis and may contribute to the development of some cancers. Learning about Epstein Barr virus can help people reduce their risk for developing the disease or recognize the signs and symptoms so they can get prompt medical treatment.
Risk Factors
Because this virus is found in saliva, the risk factors for this disease involve exchanging saliva with another person. Kissing, sharing beverages, sharing eating utensils and using the same oral-care products are all risks for Epstein Barr virus. This disease is known as the kissing disease because of its spread through saliva. Transmission via blood or air is very rare.
Signs and Symptoms
This virus usually does not cause any symptoms. However, if it turns into infectious mononucleosis, it can cause symptoms that greatly affect someone who is infected. Headache, severe fatigue, sore throat, fever, swollen lymph glands, night sweats, loss of appetite and swollen spleen or liver can all occur as a result of Epstein Barr virus that develops into infectious mononucleosis.
Diagnosis
This virus is diagnosed with laboratory tests and a physical examination. During the physical examination, a doctor will check for swollen lymph nodes, examine the throat for inflammation and determine if a fever is present. Based on these signs, Epstein Barr virus may be suspected. Laboratory tests such as the white blood cell count and monospot test can be used to confirm this suspicion. The white blood cell count shows if there are more white blood cells than normal, which is a good indicator of infection. The monospot test checks for antibodies that are associated with mononucleosis.
Treatment
The treatment for this virus is to address the individual symptoms. Recommendations from the American Academy of Family Physicians include taking a pain reliever to reduce fever and alleviate pain, getting plenty of rest, gargling with saltwater and drinking plenty of fluids. If this virus is accompanied by a bacterial infection, antibiotic treatment may be administered.
Associated Risks
There are risks associated with having the Epstein Barr virus. This disease has been linked to Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal cancer. This virus can also cause the liver to become inflamed or cause jaundice of the skin to develop. These complications require medical treatment to prevent more serious consequences.
