According to an analysis by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), an agency of the World Health Organization (WHO), the Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is one of the infectious agents responsible for a substantial cancer burden worldwide in 2024.
The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), also known as Human Herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4), belongs to the herpesvirus family. It is a common virus that infects people across the world.
Although many EBV infections do not cause noticeable illness, the virus can remain in the body throughout a person's life and is associated with certain cancers and other medical conditions.
EBV spreads primarily through saliva. Transmission can occur through kissing or sharing drinks, food, eating utensils and toothbrushes with an infected person.
Many people infected with EBV do not develop noticeable symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and marked fatigue.
The virus can cause infectious mononucleosis, commonly known as mono, particularly among teenagers and young adults.
After the initial infection, EBV remains in the body in a latent or dormant state. It can persist throughout a person's lifetime.
The virus may reactivate under certain circumstances, particularly when immune function is impaired. However, reactivation does not necessarily lead to illness or cancer.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies EBV as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning there is sufficient evidence that it can cause cancer in humans.
This classification identifies the strength of evidence that an agent can cause cancer; it does not mean that every person infected with EBV will develop cancer.
EBV is associated with several cancers and medical conditions, including:
Burkitt lymphoma, a type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Hodgkin lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a cancer affecting the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
Certain types of stomach cancer.
Some other lymphomas, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
EBV has also been associated with multiple sclerosis, a chronic disease affecting the central nervous system. However, multiple sclerosis is not a cancer.
Important distinction: Most people infected with EBV never develop cancer. The risk depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, immune status and other biological and environmental influences.
There is currently no specific treatment or routinely available vaccine for EBV infection. Most infections are managed through supportive care.
Drinking sufficient fluids, getting adequate rest and managing symptoms can help recovery. Medical advice should be sought if symptoms are severe or persistent.
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In every Lecture. Director Sir will provide conceptual understanding with around 800 Mindmaps.
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