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Published on: September 7, 2022
[A case of age-related Epstein-Barr virus-associated B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder which presented with
Yoshikatsu Noda1, Yoshihisa Ohtsuka, Naoko Yasui
1Department of Neurology, Kobe University Hospital
Abstract:
A 65-year-old man presented with complaints of general malaise and severe disturbance of consciousness since 2 months prior to admission. MRI of the head showed high intensity area in FLAIR image in the left basel ganglia, the medial side of the left temporal lobe and both sides of the frontal lobe and brainstem. The contrasting effect was insignificant. Laboratory investigations showed positive results of EBV antibody titer and elevated EBV-DNA in the spinal fluid. We suspected encephalitis due to Epstein-Barr virus and the patient was treated with acyclovir and high dosage of steroids. However, the patient's consciousness gradually deteriorated and he died on day 146 of admission. Autopsy revealed proliferation of large atypical cells with clear and irregular nuclei in the brain tissue. Immunohistochemistry expressed positive EBER-ISH. This case was finally diagnosed as the central nervous system involvement by age-related Epstein-Barr virus-associated B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder.
Insights
A rare Epstein-Barr virus-associated B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder affected the central nervous system in an elderly patient. Despite treatment, the condition progressed, leading to a fatal outcome and confirmed by autopsy findings.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) can cause various conditions, including lymphoproliferative disorders.
- Central nervous system (CNS) involvement by EBV is uncommon, particularly in older adults.
Observation:
- A 65-year-old man presented with malaise and disturbed consciousness.
- Brain MRI revealed FLAIR hyperintensities in the basal ganglia, temporal lobe, frontal lobe, and brainstem.
- Cerebrospinal fluid showed elevated EBV-DNA and positive EBV antibody titers.
Findings:
- Initial treatment with acyclovir and steroids was ineffective, with progressive neurological decline.
- Autopsy identified atypical B-cells in brain tissue.
- Immunohistochemistry confirmed Epstein-Barr virus-encoded small RNA (EBER) in situ hybridization (ISH) positivity.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare instance of CNS involvement by age-related EBV-associated B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder.
- The findings underscore the importance of considering EBV-driven lymphoproliferative disorders in elderly patients with unexplained neurological symptoms.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathogenesis and develop effective treatments for this rare condition.
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