The spectrum of Epstein-Barr virus hepatitis in children

The clinical and pathologic features of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) hepatitis in 3 children are described. Manifestations included fever, hepatomegaly, disseminated intravascular coagulation, and failure of uptake of technetium by the reticuloendothelial system of the liver. Histologic features may mimic chronic active hepatitis and lymphoid malignancy. Two patients underwent exploratory laparotomy because of suspected tumor. Recognition of the wide spectrum of hepatic involvement in infectious mononucleosis is important in the differential diagnosis of hepatomegaly. Diagnosis should be made by measurement of IgM-specific EBV antibodies.