Epstein barr virus

Virus Epstein-Barr refers to herpes viruses. This explains its wide distribution. Currently over 90% of adults are carriers of the virus Epstein-Barr. The virus cannot cause large epidemics, as it is transmitted only through very close contact. For example, such contacts include sexual acts, kisses or blood transfusions. This virus is rare, but you can still get infected in everyday life. Infection can occur through personal care products.

The history of Epstein Barr virus

A virus originally from Africa. It was first discovered 35 years ago. Epstein Barr virus was isolated from Burkitt's lymphoma (a special cancer that was discovered and described by the English surgeon Burkitt). The virus is named after the virologist M.E. Epstein It was he who became interested in the scientific report of Burkitt. The second part in the name of the virus comes from the name of a graduate student, which Epstein took as an assistant to study sent samples of tumors. In these specimens, the previously unknown herpes virus was discovered, which was then called the virus Epstein Barr.

Epstein Barr virus can cause several diseases..

Diseases caused by Epstein Barr virus and their symptoms

Infectious mononucleosis.This ailment is often referred to as the "kissing disease". As you can guess from the second name, it is transmitted through saliva, with kissing and oral sex. In addition, transmission can occur with handshakes, through toys and through blood transfusions. Most often, this infection is received by young people and children. Nearly half of children born and living in developing countries carry this virus in themselves, which they received from their mothers. In developed countries, the main carriers of the virus are residents of 18 years of age.

Incubation periodmononucleosis usually lasts 1-2 months. After this period, the Epstein Barr virus begins active breeding. This process occurs in the lymph nodes, as well as in the tissues of the nose and throat. The first signs of the disease are high fever (38-40 ° C), as well as all the symptoms of acute respiratory infections, tonsillitis and pharyngitis. Most often, patients begin to complain of pain in the head and throat, as well as excessive sweating. Significantly increasing their numbers during reproduction, the virus enters the blood. Of course, the red liquid carries it to all human organs. More often virus particles are detected in the spleen, liver, cervix, salivary glands, and lymph nodes. The virus can enter the environment through secretions from the cervix or the saliva of a person. For mononucleosis is characterized by an increase in lymph nodes on the back of the head, under the chin and in the corners of the mandible. In addition, in some patients can be detected enlarged spleen and liver. People whose immune system is weakened may experience damage to the heart and nervous system. Severe cases of mononucleosis can lead to jaundice and rupture of the spleen. The final the result of the Epstein Barr virus in the human body is a change in the blood formula, due to the reduction in the number of white blood cells.

Burkitt's lymphoma. Another disease that is caused by a virus Epstein Barr. This disease is found only in Africa. Most often they suffer from children aged 4 to 8 years. In this case, the virus causes the formation of a tumor, which can affect the ovaries, lymph nodes, kidneys and adrenal glands, as well as the upper and lower jaw.

Epstein Barr virusfound in lymphoblasts and lymph nodes. He provokes nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and besides, serves as one of the causes of lymphogranulomatosis.

To accurately diagnose the presence of a virus Epstein Barr, not enough to detect its main symptoms. A blood or saliva test is usually done to detect this virus. After receiving the results of the analysis (if the presence of a virus is detected), doctors face another difficulty. It consists in determining the stage of development of the disease. This the virus is poorly understood, That is why the main therapeutic measures are aimed at eliminating the symptoms of the disease. Medicines that help with chronic form, has not yet been invented.

If you find yourself showing signs of a disease that causes a virus.Epstein Barr, consult a doctor immediately and get tested. It is especially important to pass an examination after traveling to exotic places, for example, in Africa.