Will the Epstein-Barr virus persist indefinitely in the throat?
Sep 26, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Song Haitao
Introduction
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.
Under normal circumstances, the Epstein-Barr (EB) virus persists continuously in the pharynx. The EB virus belongs to the lymphocryptovirus genus of the herpesvirus family and has a DNA genome. Once infection occurs, the virus remains in the pharynx indefinitely. Specific analysis is as follows:
The EB virus exhibits a biological characteristic of specifically infecting human and certain primate B cells, both in vivo and in vitro. Humans are the natural hosts for EB virus, which primarily spreads through saliva. Infection mainly localizes in the pharyngeal region and may present with local swelling or ulceration. In more severe cases, it can lead to respiratory difficulty, affecting overall health.
Furthermore, after EB virus infection, the human body can produce neutralizing antibodies that prevent reinfection by exogenous EB virus. However, these antibodies cannot completely eliminate the latent EB virus within cells. The latent virus inside the body maintains a relatively balanced state with the host's immune system, allowing EB virus to persistently replicate at low titers in the oropharynx throughout life. Therefore, the EB virus remains permanently present in the throat.
If a patient experiences any discomfort symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delaying treatment.
