Related Experiment Videos
Subacute sensory neuropathy associated with Epstein-Barr virus
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA.
Muscle & Nerve
|October 8, 1999
Summary
A rare complication of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is subacute sensory neuropathy. This condition affects both the peripheral and central nervous systems, causing severe sensory loss.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neuroimmunology
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human herpesvirus.
- While typically causing infectious mononucleosis, EBV can lead to various neurological complications.
- Subacute sensory neuropathy is a recognized, albeit rare, neurological manifestation.
Observation:
- A 35-year-old male presented with profound sensory loss, pseudoathetosis, and areflexia post-viral illness.
- Clinical examination revealed absent sensory nerve action potentials and normal blink reflexes.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed abnormalities in the thoracic spinal cord.
Findings:
- Nerve conduction studies indicated absent sensory potentials and mildly slowed motor conduction velocities.
- Elevated acute and convalescent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) titers confirmed EBV infection.
- The clinical and imaging findings were consistent with subacute sensory neuropathy.
Implications:
- This case highlights EBV as a potential cause of subacute sensory neuropathy.
- It underscores the importance of considering EBV in the differential diagnosis of unexplained sensory deficits.
- Further research may elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms linking EBV to central and peripheral nervous system involvement.