Reactivation of Epstein-Barr virus in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

Rheumatol Int. 2005 Apr;25(3):183-7. doi: 10.1007/s00296-003-0420-2. Epub 2003 Dec 10.

Abstract

A link between Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been suggested. However, recent advances in molecular technology now permit more detailed analysis. Sera from SLE patients were tested for antibodies to several EBV antigens and had a significantly higher prevalence of immunoglobulin G antibodies against EBV early antigens than in normal or disease controls. This suggests that recent EBV infection or virus reactivation was occurring in these patients.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Distribution
  • Aged
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / diagnosis
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / epidemiology
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / immunology*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens / analysis
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens / immunology*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / immunology*
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / isolation & purification
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / epidemiology
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / immunology*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / virology*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prevalence
  • Probability
  • Reference Values
  • Risk Assessment
  • Sex Distribution
  • Statistics, Nonparametric

Substances

  • Epstein-Barr Virus Nuclear Antigens