Can EB virus cause cancer?

Jan 04, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Qi Zhirong

Introduction

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus 4, is a DNA virus. EBV infection is often associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, lymphoma, and gastric cancer. However, being positive for EBV does not necessarily mean that cancer is present; rather, it acts as a contributing factor in the development of these cancers. Individuals who are EBV-positive should take preventive measures, and if experiencing any discomfort, are advised to seek medical evaluation promptly to rule out the possibility of malignant transformation.

Generally, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), also known as human herpesvirus 4, is a DNA virus. EBV infection is often associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, lymphoma, and gastric cancer. However, a positive EBV test does not necessarily mean the presence of cancer; rather, it is a significant contributing factor to these cancers. Individuals testing positive for EBV should focus on prevention and seek prompt medical evaluation if experiencing any symptoms to rule out malignant transformation.

In most people, the immune system can effectively control EBV, making it similar to common cold viruses without highly specific characteristics. EBV belongs to the herpesvirus family and primarily spreads through close contact. In adults, infection typically presents acutely with fever, pharyngitis, rash, and hepatosplenomegaly. Laboratory tests may show a marked increase in white blood cell count.

After infecting humans, both carriers and symptomatic patients serve as sources of transmission. The virus mainly spreads via saliva but can also transmit through blood. Therefore, personal protective measures are important to minimize the risk of EBV infection. In populations with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, EBV genetic material is commonly detected.

EBV infection can be treated with medications, which vary depending on individual patient conditions. Vaccination may also help prevent infection. Regular physical exercise and improving overall immunity are recommended. Individuals who are EBV-positive should pay particular attention to their risks of developing nasopharyngeal carcinoma, lymphoma, and gastric cancer.

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What should be done if a pregnant woman is infected with Epstein-Barr virus?

In general, EB virus infection in pregnant women is usually associated with factors such as dehydration, excessive fatigue, decreased immune resistance, exposure to infectious sources, and environmental influences. Pregnant women should seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital and receive appropriate therapy based on their condition. In daily life, pregnant women should ensure adequate rest, maintain sufficient sleep, and avoid prolonged熬夜.

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Will the Epstein-Barr virus persist indefinitely in the throat?

Under normal circumstances, Epstein-Barr (EB) virus persists continuously in the throat. EB virus is a member of the Lymphocryptovirus genus within the Herpesviridae family, with a DNA genome. Once infection occurs, the virus remains persistently present in the throat. EB virus has the biological characteristic of specifically infecting human and certain primate B lymphocytes, both in vivo and in vitro. If patients develop symptoms or feel unwell, they should seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital.

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Can eating oranges during pregnancy cause jaundice?

Eating oranges during pregnancy does not cause jaundice in babies. Consuming oranges while pregnant helps supplement trace elements and vitamins, promoting fetal growth. After birth, newborns may develop physiological jaundice due to elevated bilirubin levels. Pathological jaundice, on the other hand, is associated with prematurity, feeding issues, blood type incompatibility between mother and baby, or infections such as cytomegalovirus or EB virus, as well as blood or liver problems.

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What does an EB virus level of 800 U/ml indicate?

Under normal circumstances, an EB virus antibody test result of 800 U/ml usually suggests a possible EB virus infection. There are multiple indicators for testing EB virus antibodies, and the reference ranges may vary depending on the specific indicator and the testing method used. If the test result shows a value of 800 U/ml, which is significantly higher than the reference range, it indicates that the body may currently be in an active EB virus infection phase.

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What is Epstein-Barr virus deoxyribonucleic acid?

EB virus deoxyribonucleic acid generally refers to EB virus DNA, which is the genetic material of the virus and typically consists of a linear double-stranded DNA molecule of approximately 172 kb in length, containing about 80 genes, of which around 40 encode proteins. If an individual is infected with the EB virus, blood tests usually show positive for EB virus DNA, indicating infection with the EB virus.

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Elevated Epstein-Barr virus markers, but no obvious symptoms

In general, elevated Epstein-Barr (EB) virus markers without obvious symptoms may be related to misdiagnosis, strong individual immunity, absence of antibody production, past infection history, or the acute phase of infection. Patients are advised to follow medical instructions for symptomatic treatment. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying diagnosis and treatment.

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What does the EB virus antibody test check for?

EB virus antibody testing checks for the presence of EB virus-related antibodies in the blood, primarily used to assist in diagnosing whether there has been a past infection with EB virus or if there is a current EB virus infection. If abnormal results are found, timely medical consultation is recommended. If EB virus antibody test results are abnormal, prompt medical attention is advised for further diagnosis and timely treatment.

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What is active Epstein-Barr virus infection?

Active Epstein-Barr virus infection usually refers to chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection, a viral disease caused by persistent or recurrent EB virus infection. Daily care should focus on strengthening the body's immunity and preventing transmission. Ensure adequate rest during infection, avoid staying up late and strenuous exercise, so the body has sufficient energy to fight the virus. Choose light, easily digestible foods in your diet.

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