Abstract

MOREIRA, Eunice et al. Epstein Barr Virus infection and hepatitis. Nascer e Crescer [online]. 2011, vol.20, n.2, pp.73-75. ISSN 0872-0754.

Introduction:Epstein Barr virus (VEB) infection is very prevalent with more than 90% of adults worldwide seropositive. The majority of primary VEB infections are subclinical. Acute complications are very rare but can be fatal. Case report: A nine-year-old girl was admitted with fever for 13 days, abdominal pain and sore throat. Laboratory results were consistent with an acute viral hepatitis with markedly elevated transaminase levels. The diagnosis of acute VEB infection was confirmed by the positive heterophilic antibody monospot assay and serological markers. Conclusion: Although common, liver disease is usually mild with transient elevation of serum aminotransferases, and cases of severe hepatitis are rare. The authors report this case due to the unexpected severity of liver disease.

Keywords : Epstein Barr virus; hepatitis; infectious mononucleosis.

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