Epstein-Barr virus and skin.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Dermatology
• Oncology

Background:

• Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a widespread human DNA virus, infecting up to 90% of the global population.
• Latin America experiences early EBV exposure, resulting in longer host-virus interaction compared to developed nations.
• EBV is implicated in numerous diseases, particularly oncological conditions, with diverse cutaneous manifestations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the spectrum of EBV-associated cutaneous diseases.
• To emphasize the importance of recognizing these conditions in dermatological practice.
• To provide a diagnostic overview for clinicians encountering these rare presentations.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical presentations of EBV-related skin conditions.
• Categorization of acute and chronic EBV-induced dermatoses.
• Literature synthesis on epidemiological and etiological factors.

Main Results:

• Acute presentations include infectious mononucleosis rash and Lipschutz ulcers.
• Chronic manifestations encompass hypersensitivity to mosquito bites, hydroa vacciniforme, and hydroa vacciniforme-like lymphoma.
• EBV is also associated with nasal and extra-nasal NK/T-cell lymphoma.

Conclusions:

• EBV can manifest with a wide array of acute and chronic skin conditions.
• Early and prolonged exposure in Latin America may influence disease patterns.
• Dermatologists must be aware of these uncommon EBV-related conditions for accurate diagnosis and management.