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Published on: November 8, 2011
Epstein-Barr virus shedding in breast milk
A K Junker1, E E Thomas, A Radcliffe
1Department of Paediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
The American Journal of the Medical Sciences
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA was detected in breast milk from 46% of women studied. EBV shedding peaked 3-12 weeks postpartum, suggesting breast milk may transmit the virus to infants.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Neonatal Health
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human herpesvirus.
- Transmission routes of EBV to infants are not fully understood.
- Breast milk is a potential source of neonatal infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA in human breast milk.
- To determine the prevalence and patterns of EBV shedding in breast milk post-delivery.
- To assess the potential role of breast milk in early EBV infection in infants.
Main Methods:
- Human breast milk samples were collected from 100 healthy mothers.
- DNA-DNA hybridization dot-blot assay was used to detect EBV genome (Bam HIW region).
- EBV-IgG, IgM, and IgA antibodies were tested in breast milk samples.
Main Results:
- EBV DNA was detected in 46% of breast milk samples (60/132).
- EBV shedding prevalence increased postnatally, peaking at 74% between 3-12 weeks postpartum.
- Lower initial shedding was observed in mothers delivering prematurely (20%) compared to term deliveries (46%).
- Consistent shedding was observed in 8/18 mothers, intermittent in 5/18.
- EBV-specific antibodies were rarely detected in breast milk (7% IgG, 0% IgM/IgA).
Conclusions:
- Human breast milk can harbor Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA.
- Postnatal EBV shedding in breast milk is common and increases over time.
- Further research is needed to confirm breast milk as a significant source of infant EBV infection.
