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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
09:14
Isolation and Quantification of Epstein-Barr Virus from the P3HR1 Cell Line
Published on: September 28, 2022
Epstein-Barr virus-associated genital ulcers: an under-recognized disorder
Cheryl J Barnes1, Alessandra B Alió, Bari B Cunningham
1Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Dermatology, Children's Hospital, San Diego, University of California, San Diego Medical School, San Diego, California, USA.
Pediatric Dermatology
|April 28, 2007
Summary
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection can cause rare genital ulcers in adolescents. This case highlights EBV as a potential cause of painful genital lesions in otherwise healthy young females.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Dermatology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Infectious mononucleosis, a common syndrome, is primarily caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
- While various skin and mucosal symptoms are known, genital ulcers are an infrequently reported manifestation of primary EBV infection.
Observation:
- A healthy 14-year-old female presented with painful genital ulcers during an acute EBV infection episode.
- Comprehensive clinical, serological, and histopathological assessments ruled out other causes for the observed lesions.
Findings:
- The patient's genital ulcers were directly attributed to primary Epstein-Barr virus infection.
- This case adds to the limited reports, with only 13 similar instances documented in females previously.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering Epstein-Barr virus in the differential diagnosis of genital ulcers in adolescents.
- Further research may clarify the pathogenesis and prevalence of EBV-associated genital ulcerations, particularly in pediatric and adolescent populations.
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