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[Epidemiological analysis of infectious mononucleosis as primary Epstein-Barr virus infection]
T Yamamoto1, K Yoshida, K Torasawa
1Department of Clinical Pathology, Showa University Fujigaoka Hospital, Yokohama.
Abstract:
We report the characteristics of 45 Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-infected patients visiting our hospital from 1989 to 1991 in comparison with 102 patients seen from 1981 to 1988. Cases of infectious mononucleosis (IM) increased especially in patients over 30 years old. They tended to have nonspecific symptoms and signs for IM such as general fatigue. Immunologically showed twice higher positivity for anti-EBV VCA-IgM antibody in the recent 3 years when compared to the previous 8 years. The patients with anti-EBNA antibody decreased in the recent 3 years. This may be due to early diagnosis as IM. EBV also causes atypical diseases. non-IM in this report, including hematological or neurological disorders. We indicated here the increased number and advanced age of patients with IM and early diagnosis as IM in the recent 3 years compared to the previous 8 years.
Insights
Infectious mononucleosis (IM) cases caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) increased in adults over 30, with earlier diagnoses and more non-IM conditions observed. This suggests a shift in EBV infection patterns and detection methods.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Context:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human herpesvirus.
- Infectious mononucleosis (IM) is a primary EBV manifestation.
- Changes in EBV infection epidemiology and diagnosis are of clinical interest.
Purpose:
- To analyze trends in EBV infections, specifically IM, over two distinct periods.
- To compare patient demographics, symptoms, and immunological markers between 1981-1988 and 1989-1991.
- To identify shifts in the presentation and diagnosis of EBV-related illnesses.
Summary:
- A comparison of 102 patients (1981-1988) with 45 patients (1989-1991) revealed an increase in IM cases among individuals over 30 years old.
- Recent cases showed a higher prevalence of non-specific symptoms like fatigue and a twofold increase in anti-EBV VCA-IgM antibody positivity.
- A decrease in anti-EBNA antibody positivity in recent years may indicate earlier IM diagnosis, alongside an increase in non-IM EBV-related disorders.
Impact:
- Highlights evolving patterns of Epstein-Barr virus infections in adults.
- Suggests improved early diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis.
- Underscores the importance of considering EBV in atypical hematological and neurological presentations.