Description
- The Epstein Barr virus (EBV) is a member of the herpes family of viruses. It
is mainly spread by the oropharyngeal (nose and mouth) route, although it can also
be transmitted by blood transfusions.1 It has the capability to remain
in a dormant state in the body. When EBV comes in contact with human B cells it
attaches to the cell membrane and eventually takes control of the cell DNA, reprogramming
it to make copies of the virus. Most people fully recover from EBV with no lasting
effects.2
Types
- Acute EBV (also called infectious mononucleosis) is characterized by flulike
symptoms, including sore throat, nasal congestion, low-grade fever, malaise, and
swollen neck glands, in more severe cases there can be spleen and liver involvement.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the age when infected.
- Chronic EBV ( recurrent mononucleosis) is characterized by symptoms that can
become much more severe. Patients sometimes experience peripheral nerve pain, numbness,
seizures, paralysis and even encephalitis. Much of this damage is produced by the
bodys own antibody-producing cells, not by the EBV virus. Even in such extreme
cases, complete recovery is possible. 3
Prevention and Management
General:
- Treatment is usually supportive, unless there are complications, and should include
rest during the acute phase; because EBV can affect the spleen and increase the
risk of rupturing the spleen, heavy lifting and contact sports should be avoided
for about two months. 4
Nutritional Influences:
- The immune system defends the body against microorganisms including the Epstein
Barr virus. Optimal immune function requires a healthy lifestyle; eating a balanced
diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting adequate fiber. Vitamins and minerals
that are associated with immune function may help modulate the bodys response to
EBV and other microorganisms. 5
- Copper is important in the prevention of infection and plays a role in the function
of T-cells.6
- Selenium is an essential trace element necessary for the bodys antioxidant defense,
especially for cellular immunity. 7
- Zinc is important for proper function of the thymus gland, thymus hormones, and
cellular immunity. 8
- Vitamin A deficiency is associated with impaired immunity and infectious disease. 9
- Vitamin E protects against infection and is linked to stimulatory effects on
the immune system. 10
- Vitamin C enhances destruction of viruses and bacteria. 11
- Cell-mediated immunity is impaired by a folic acid deficiency.12
- B6 ( pyridoxine) is essential for normal maintenance of T-cell function. 13
- B5 ( pantothenic acid) stimulates the immune system. 14
References
1 Dreizen S. Nutrition and the immune response-a review. Int J Vitam Nutr
Res 1979;49(2):220-228.
2 Ha C, Miller LT, Kerkviet NI. The effect of vitamin B6 deficiency on cytotoxic
immune responses of T cells, antibodies, and natural killer cells, and phagocytosis
by macrophages. Cell Immunol 1984 May;85(2):318-329.
3 Dhur A, Galan P, Hercberg S. Folate status and the immune system. Prog
Food Nutr Sci 1991;15(1-2):43-60
4 Leibovitz B, Siegel BV. Ascorbic acid, neutrophil function, and the immune
response. Int J Vitam Nutr Res 1978;48(2):159-164
5 Harbige LS. Nutrition and immunity with emphasis on infection and autoimmune
disease. Nutr Health 1996;10(4):285-312
6 Harbige LS. Nutrition and immunity with emphasis on infection and autoimmune
disease. Nutr Health 1996;10(4):285-312.
7 Dreizen S. Nutrition and the immune response-a review. Int J Vitam Nutr
Res 1979;49(2):220-228.
8 Badmaev V, Majeed M, Passwater RA. Selenium: a quest for better understanding.
Altern Ther Health Med 1996 Jul;2(4):59-62
9 Harbige LS. Nutrition and immunity with emphasis on infection and autoimmune
disease. Nutr Health 1996;10(4):285-312
10 Somer E. The Essential Guide to Vitamins and Minerals. New York:HarperPerennial
1992. p 128-129
11 The Merck Manual. Rahway (NJ):Merck Research Laboratories; 1992. p 2285
12 The Merck Manual. Rahway (NJ):Merck Research Laboratories; 1992. p 2281-2285
