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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
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Isolation and Quantification of Epstein-Barr Virus from the P3HR1 Cell Line
Published on: September 28, 2022
Epstein-Barr virus infection in pregnancy--a prospective controlled study
Meytal Avgil1, Orna Diav-Citrin, Svetlana Shechtman
1The Israeli Teratogen Information Service, Israel Ministry of Health Jerusalem, Israel.
Reproductive Toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.)
|June 7, 2008
Summary
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection during pregnancy appears safe for fetuses. This study found no increased risk of major congenital anomalies in infants born to mothers with EBV exposure.
Area of Science:
- Maternal-fetal medicine
- Infectious diseases
- Teratology
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human virus.
- Limited data exists on maternal EBV infection's impact on pregnancy outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the fetal safety of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection during pregnancy.
- Investigate the teratogenic risk associated with maternal EBV exposure.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of pregnancy outcomes in women with EBV infection (primary, recurrent, undefined).
- Comparison group of 1434 women with non-teratogenic exposure.
- Assessed rates of major anomalies, gestational age, and birth weight.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in maternal characteristics or pregnancy outcomes between EBV-exposed and control groups.
- Gestational age at delivery and birth weight were comparable.
- The rate of major congenital anomalies did not significantly differ between groups.
Conclusions:
- Maternal EBV infection during pregnancy does not appear to pose a significant teratogenic risk to the fetus.
- Findings suggest EBV is not a major concern for fetal development in exposed pregnancies.
