Epstein-Barr Virus

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a member of the herpesvirus family, infects at least 90% of the world's adults. While most infections are mild or asymptomatic, EBV causes or is a risk factor for a plethora of diseases including infectious mononucleosis, endemic Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and multiple sclerosis. This article covers some basic virology, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, immune responses, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of EBV diseases. We also suggest future research priorities.