Cholestatic hepatitis induced by Epstein-Barr virus infection in an adult

Dig Dis Sci. 2003 Mar;48(3):539-41. doi: 10.1023/a:1022592801060.

Abstract

Liver involvement is nearly universal in healthy persons with Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infection-induced infectious mononucleosis. It is usually mild, undetected clinically and resolves spontaneously. Jaundice is distinctly uncommon and may reflect either more severe hepatitis or an associated hemolytic anemia. Cholestatic hepatitis due to EBV infection is infrequently reported and may pose a diagnostic quandary. We describe a patient who presented with jaundice and a markedly elevated serum alkaline phosphatase level due to serologically confirmed acute infection with EBV. Imaging studies excluded biliary obstruction. Symptoms and laboratory abnormalities resolved spontaneously. EBV infection should be included in the differential diagnosis of cholestatic hepatitis in adults.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antibodies, Viral / analysis
  • Cholestasis / diagnosis
  • Cholestasis / virology*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / diagnosis
  • Female
  • Hepatitis, Viral, Human / diagnosis
  • Hepatitis, Viral, Human / etiology*
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Jaundice / diagnosis
  • Jaundice / virology

Substances

  • Antibodies, Viral