Treatment of chronic Epstein Barr virus infection. Symptoms and treatment of Epstein-Barr infection - how to recognize the disease? In the early stages, stomach cancer can cause

According to statistics, about ninety percent of people are diagnosed with the Epstein-Barr virus. It happens that some even develop immunity to it, and they don’t even suspect it. But, unfortunately, it is also possible that in some situations the disease in question has an extremely negative effect on the functioning of the organs of the human body, and direct acquaintance with it ends not in the standard development of immunity, but in extreme and severe complications that can even become a threat to life. So, this article will discuss the symptoms of the Epstein-Barr virus.

What do patients complain about?

Thus, patients often present complaints such as:

During the examination of such a patient, the doctor will certainly note an enlarged spleen and liver, and laboratory tests of the patient’s tests will reflect the appearance of atypical mononuclear cells - these are young blood cells that have a general resemblance to both monocytes and lymphocytes. Symptoms of Epstein-Barr virus vary from person to person.

Is there a specific treatment?

There is no definite and specific treatment in the fight against infectious mononucleosis. Science has proven that various antiviral drugs are absolutely ineffective, and any antibiotics are best used exclusively in situations of fungal and bacterial infections. The patient should stay in bed for a long time, gargle regularly, drink plenty of fluids and, of course, take antipyretic medications. As practice shows, body temperature stabilizes within five to seven days after the onset of the disease, and enlarged lymph nodes return to their previous state within a month. It will take about six months for your blood counts to become normal.

You should pay attention to the fact that if a person is faced with infectious mononucleosis, then certain antibodies, called class G immunoglobulins, will form in his body and remain for the rest of his life; they will subsequently ensure complete ignorance of the virus.

Symptoms of Epstein-Barr virus in chronic form

In situations where there is a complete lack of response from the human immune system, the infection can develop into a chronic condition. Doctors distinguish four types of these forms of EBV infection:

Atypical. In this case, the patient experiences quite frequent relapses of infectious diseases of the intestines and genitourinary tract, and, in addition, acute respiratory ailments. Treatment of this pathology is very difficult, and its course is almost always very protracted.
Generalized infection. In such a situation, the nervous system comes under attack from the virus, which can lead to the development of encephalitis, meningitis, or radiculoneuritis. The heart may also be affected, as there is a possibility of diagnosing myocarditis. The lungs are also at risk, because pneumonia can progress as a result of infection. The development of hepatitis is dangerous for the liver. Symptoms and treatment for Epstein-Barr virus in adults are often interrelated.

special instructions

It is important to pay attention to the fact that against the background of chronic EBV infection, doctors can find the virus itself in the patient’s saliva using the polymerase method. chain reaction. They can be detected, but the latter are formed only 3-4 months after the virus enters the body. Be that as it may, this will be absolutely not enough to determine an accurate diagnosis. That is why immunologists and virologists conduct examinations of the general spectrum of antibodies.

What is the danger of the Epstein-Barr virus?

Above, cases of the Epstein-Barr virus occurring (symptoms and treatment are discussed) in a fairly mild form were given, and now let’s try to figure out what the most dangerous and severe manifestations of this pathology are.

Genital ulcers

Doctors diagnose this disease quite rarely and mainly among the female half of the population. Symptoms of genital ulcers developing against the background of the Epstein-Barr virus include the following cases:

in the area of the armpits and groin area they increase noticeably;
small ulcers form on the mucous membrane of the external sides of the genital organs;
as the infection progresses, the ulcers can increase even more and become very painful, acquiring an erosive appearance;
There is an increase in body temperature with the Epstein-Barr virus.

Symptoms and treatment in adults are closely related.

When does therapy not help?

It is noteworthy that genital ulcers within the framework of the virus in question are not subject to absolutely any treatment. Even a drug such as Acyclovir, which can help with type 2 herpes, turns out to be ineffective in a particular situation. But, nevertheless, as practice shows, ulcers disappear on their own without relapse.

It is important to pay attention to the fact that the main danger lies in the high risk of fusion of fungal and bacterial infections, since the ulcers themselves represent a kind of open gate. In this situation, it is imperative to undergo a course of antibacterial and antifungal therapy.

Oncological diseases against the background of a virus

Symptoms of Epstein-Barr virus in adults may include the following.

There are a number of oncological diseases associated with it, the direct participation of which there are many scientifically proven facts. So, such diseases include:

Hodgkin's disease or in other words lymphogranulomatosis. This disease manifests itself through weakness, sudden weight loss, dizziness and enlarged lymph nodes in absolutely all places of the human body. Diagnosis in this case is complex, and the final point in this can only be determined by a biopsy of the lymph node, during which giant Hodgkin cells will most likely be found in it. The treatment process consists of following a course of radiation therapy. According to statistics, remission can be observed in seventy percent of cases. What else can Epstein-Barr virus cause? Symptoms and treatment are also given.
Burkitt's lymphoma. This disease is diagnosed mainly among children school age and only in African countries. The resulting tumor usually affects the kidneys, ovaries, lymph nodes and adrenal glands. In addition, the lower or upper jaw. An effective and successful treatment method for this moment does not exist. What other symptoms could there be of Epstein-Barr virus?
Lymphoproliferative disease. This type of disease is characterized by a general proliferation of lymphoid tissue, which is malignant. This pathology manifests itself only through enlarged lymph nodes, and the diagnosis can only be made after a biopsy method. Treatment is carried out according to the principle of chemotherapy. True, it is impossible to give any general forecasts in this case, since everything directly depends on the individual characteristics of the course of the disease itself and the human body as a whole.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma. This tumor is malignant and is usually located in the nasopharynx, in its upper part. This cancer is most often diagnosed in African countries. Its symptoms are pain in the throat, hearing loss, constant nosebleeds, prolonged and persistent headache.

What other symptoms do children have of the Epstein-Barr virus (there are plenty of photos).

Autoimmune diseases due to Epstein-Barr virus

Science has already proven that this virus is capable of exerting its influence on the immune system of the human body, as it causes the rejection of native cells, which soon leads to autoimmune diseases. Very often, the disease in question provokes the occurrence of chronic glomerulonephritis, autoimmune hepatitis, rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren's syndrome.

Chronic fatigue

In addition to the above diseases, the appearance of which can be provoked by the Epstein-Barr virus, it is necessary to mention the syndrome of constant and chronic fatigue, which is quite often associated with herpes and occurs not only in the form of general weakness and rapid fatigue, but also the presence of headaches, apathy and all kinds of disorders of psycho-emotional well-being. Quite often in this regard, relapses associated with acute respiratory diseases occur. This is how mononucleosis, provoked by the Epstein-Barr virus, manifests itself (pictured).

Symptoms and treatment in children

There is currently no general unified scheme for the treatment of pathology. Of course, in the arsenal of doctors and specialists there are all kinds of specific medicines, such as, for example, Cycloferon, Acyclovir, Polygam, Alfaglobin, Reaferon, Famciclovir and others. But the advisability of their prescription, as well as the duration of administration and dosage volume should be determined exclusively by the attending physician after undergoing a full examination of the patient, including laboratory examination. This is confirmed by pediatrician Komarovsky.

Symptoms and treatment of the Epstein-Barr virus can be limited to the prescription of currently existing medicinal complexes, as well as symptomatic therapy, but only if such a disease is still in the initial stage of its development. In addition, treatment with special corticosteroid medications is used, which can significantly reduce fever and alleviate various inflammations. In some cases, such drugs are used, usually for acute diseases, if complications arise.

Malignant formations that are associated with the Epstein-Barr virus cannot be classified as standard forms of mononucleosis. These are completely independent diseases, even though they are caused by the same pathogen. For example, Burkitt's lymphoma is characterized by the appearance of tumors in the area inside abdominal cavity.

Conclusion

Thus, it is clear that it is best if the virus is treated and diagnosed in adult patients before it has a chance to become active. IN otherwise Most likely, you will have to deal with the treatment of concomitant diseases.

We examined the Epstein-Barr virus. Symptoms and treatment for children and adults are described.

You will find a list of them at the bottom of the page.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) belongs to the herpes virus family. It is one of the most common human viruses. For example, in the United States, 90% of the population becomes infected with it during their lifetime. Most people, especially young children, have little or very mild symptomatic infection. The exception is people with weakened immune systems, who may develop diseases such as mononucleosis and lymphoma due to infection with the virus. EBV is transmitted primarily through saliva, which is why it is also called “kissing disease.” However, it can also be transmitted through other body fluids. There is no vaccine for this virus, and antiviral drugs are used only to treat severe, rapidly developing forms. In this regard, the main means of combating EBV infection are prevention and alternative treatment methods.

Steps

Part 1

How to reduce the risk of EBV infection

Make sure you have a strong immune system. The main prevention of any viral, bacterial or fungal infection is healthy and strong the immune system. The task of the immune system is to recognize and destroy pathogens, including EBV, using special white blood cells. If the immune system is weakened, pathogens multiply almost unhindered and spread throughout the body. That is why, in order to prevent the development of EBV and any other infections, you need to do everything possible to ensure that you have a strong immune system that copes well with its functions.

Get as much vitamin C or ascorbic acid as possible. Until now, the effect of vitamin C on viruses that cause common colds. However, it has been proven that vitamin C has significant antiviral and immunostimulating properties. It helps prevent EBV infection or reduce its consequences, as it stimulates the production and activity of leukocytes, which search for and destroy viruses. It is recommended to consume 75-125 mg of vitamin C per day. The dose depends on gender and whether you smoke tobacco products. However, in Lately In medical circles, concerns began to be expressed that even this amount may not be enough for the normal functioning of the immune system and the body as a whole.

If your body is fighting an infection, the recommended dose is at least 1000 mg, divided into two doses.
Vitamin C is found in large quantities in citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, tomatoes and broccoli.

Take biologically active additives which help strengthen the immune system. Not only vitamin C, but also many other vitamins, minerals and herbal preparations have antiviral and immunostimulating properties. Unfortunately, their effectiveness in preventing and combating EBV infection has not been sufficiently studied. This is due to the fact that high quality Scientific research require large cash costs, and these funds are rarely allocated to research into natural or “non-traditional” medicines. What's also special about EBV is that it can hide inside B cells, a type of white blood cell that the body produces to fight infection. This makes EBV difficult to eradicate simply by stimulating the immune system, but it is still worth a try.

Be careful when kissing. Most often, teenagers and adults around the world become infected with EBV during a kiss. Some people's bodies cope with the virus without symptoms, others develop mild symptoms, and others may be sick for several weeks or even months. Therefore, the best prevention of EBV and other viral infections is not to kiss or engage in sexual relations. sexual contacts with those who may be sick. Be careful and refrain from romantic kisses with a person who feels tired, exhausted, has a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes. However, do not forget that a person can have EBV infection asymptomatically and still be a carrier.

Part 2
What treatment options are there?
1. Only severe symptoms need to be treated. There is no typical treatment for EBV infection specifically, since very often it has no symptomatic manifestations at all. As a rule, even mononucleosis goes away on its own within a few months. If you are concerned about symptoms such as heat, sore throat and swollen lymph nodes, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) and anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, naproxen). If your throat is severely swollen, your doctor may prescribe a short course of steroid medication. There is no need to remain in bed, but with mononucleosis a person may feel very weak.
2. Consider taking colloidal silver. Colloidal silver is a liquid preparation containing tiny atomic clusters of electrically charged silver. There is evidence in the medical literature that a silver solution is capable of destroying a number of viruses, but its effectiveness depends on the particle size (less than 10 nm in diameter) and purity (without salt or protein impurities). Subnanometer silver particles have a strong electrical charge and are capable of destroying even rapidly mutating viral pathogenic microorganisms. However, it has not yet been clarified whether silver particles specifically destroy EBV, so before making definite recommendations, additional research is necessary.
  - A silver solution, even in high concentration, is considered non-toxic, but if it is protein-based, the risk of developing argyria increases. Argyria is a disease that manifests itself as changes in skin color as a result of the accumulation of silver compounds.
  - Dietary supplements with colloidal silver can be purchased at pharmacies or specialty stores.
3. Consult your doctor if you have a chronic infection. If EBV infection or mononucleosis does not disappear after several months, consult your doctor to prescribe effective antiviral or other potent medications. Chronic EBV infection is not common, but if it persists for many months, it negatively affects immunity and quality of life. There is evidence that treatment of chronic EBV infection with antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, ganciclovir, vidarabine and foscarnet can be effective. Keep in mind that if the disease is mild, antiviral therapy is ineffective. In case of chronic EBV infection, immunosuppressants (corticosteroids, cyclosporine) can also be used. They will help relieve symptoms for a while.
  - Immune suppressant drugs may slow the body's immune response to EBV, causing infected with virus the cells will continue to multiply. Therefore, the doctor must decide how much the expected benefit from taking these drugs outweighs the risk of undesirable consequences.
  - As a result of taking antiviral drugs, there may be such side effects: skin rash, stomach upset, diarrhea, joint pain, headache, dizziness, fatigue.
  - Despite numerous attempts to develop a vaccine against EBV, they have so far been unsuccessful.

According to research, half of schoolchildren and 90% of forty-year-olds have encountered the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), are immune to it and do not even know it. This article will focus on those for whom getting to know the virus was not so painless.

Infectious mononucleosis

At the onset of the disease, mononucleosis is practically indistinguishable from ordinary ARVI. Patients are bothered by a runny nose, moderate sore throat, and body temperature rises to subfebrile levels.

The acute form of EBV is called. The virus enters the human body through the nasopharynx. More often through the mouth - it’s not for nothing that I got infectious mononucleosis beautiful name"kissing disease" The virus multiplies in cells of lymphoid tissue (in particular, in B lymphocytes).

A week after infection, a clinical picture resembling an acute respiratory infection develops:

temperature increase, sometimes up to 40 °C,
hyperemic tonsils, often with plaque,
as well as a chain of lymph nodes in the neck along the sternocleidomastoid muscle, as well as in the back of the head, under the lower jaw, in the armpits and in the groin area,
may be detected during examination of “packets” of lymph nodes in the mediastinum and abdominal cavity, the patient may complain of cough, pain in the sternum or in the abdomen,
the liver and spleen increase in size,
Atypical mononuclear cells appear in a blood test - young blood cells similar to both monocytes and lymphocytes.

The patient spends about a week in bed, during which time he drinks a lot, gargles and takes antipyretics. There is no specific treatment for mononucleosis, the effectiveness of existing antiviral drugs has not been proven, and antibiotics are needed only in the case of a bacterial or fungal infection.

Typically, the fever disappears within a week, the lymph nodes shrink within a month, and blood changes can persist for six months.

After suffering from mononucleosis, specific antibodies remain in the body for life - immunoglobulins of class G (IgG-EBVCA, IgG-EBNA-1), which provide immunity to the virus.

Chronic EBV infection

If the immune response is not effective enough, a chronic Epstein-Barr viral infection may develop: erased, active, generalized or atypical.

Severe: the temperature often rises or stays for a long time within 37–38 ° C, increased fatigue, drowsiness, muscle and joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes may appear.
Atypical: infections often recur - intestinal, urinary tract, repeated acute respiratory infections. They are protracted and difficult to treat.
Active: symptoms of mononucleosis (fever, sore throat, lymphadenopathy, hepato- and splenomegaly) recur, often complicated by bacterial and fungal infections. The virus can cause damage to the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines; patients complain of nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Generalized: defeat nervous system(, encephalitis, radiculoneuritis), heart (), lungs (pneumonitis), liver (hepatitis).

In case of chronic infection, both the virus itself can be detected in saliva by PCR, and antibodies to nuclear antigens (IgG-EBNA-1), which are formed only 3-4 months after infection. However, this is not enough to make a diagnosis, because the same picture can be observed in a completely healthy carrier of the virus. Immunologists examine the entire spectrum of antiviral antibodies at least twice.

An increase in the amount of IgG to VCA and EA will suggest relapse of the disease.

How dangerous is Epstein-Barr virus?

Genital ulcers associated with EBV

The disease is quite rare and occurs more often in young women. Quite deep and painful erosions appear on the mucous membrane of the external genitalia. In most cases, in addition to ulcers, general symptoms typical of mononucleosis also develop. Acyclovir, which has proven itself in the treatment of herpes type II, was not very effective for genital ulcers associated with the Epstein-Barr virus. Fortunately, the rash goes away on its own and rarely recurs.

Hemophagocytic syndrome (X-Linked Lymphoproliferative Disease)

Epstein-Barr virus can infect T lymphocytes. As a result, a process is launched that leads to the destruction of blood cells - red blood cells, platelets, and leukocytes. This means that in addition to the symptoms characteristic of mononucleosis (fever, lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly), the patient develops anemia, hemorrhagic rashes, and blood clotting is impaired. These phenomena may disappear spontaneously, but can also lead to death and therefore require active treatment.

Cancers associated with EBV

Currently, the role of the virus in the development of such cancers is not disputed:

Burkitt's lymphoma,
nasopharyngeal carcinoma,
lymphogranulomatosis,
lymphoproliferative disease.

Burkitt's lymphoma occurs in children preschool age and only in Africa. The tumor affects the lymph nodes, upper or lower jaw, ovaries, adrenal glands and kidneys. Unfortunately, there are no drugs that guarantee success in its treatment yet.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a tumor located in the upper part of the nasopharynx. It manifests itself as nasal congestion, nosebleeds, hearing loss, sore throat and persistent headache. Most often found in African countries.
Lymphogranulomatosis (otherwise known as Hodgkin's disease), on the contrary, more often affects Europeans of any age. It is manifested by enlarged lymph nodes, usually of several groups, including retrosternal and intra-abdominal, fever, and weight loss. The diagnosis is confirmed by a lymph node biopsy: giant Hodgkin (Reed-Berezovsky-Sternberg) cells are detected. Radiation therapy can achieve stable remission in 70% of patients.
Lymphoproliferative disease (plasma hyperplasia, T-cell lymphoma, B-cell lymphoma, immunoblastic lymphoma) is a group of diseases in which malignant proliferation of lymphoid tissue cells occurs. The disease is manifested by enlarged lymph nodes, and the diagnosis is made after a biopsy. The effectiveness of chemotherapy varies depending on the type of tumor.

Autoimmune diseases

The impact of the virus on the immune system causes failures in the recognition of its own tissues, which leads to the development of autoimmune diseases. EBV infection is listed among the etiological factors in the development of SLE, chronic glomerulonephritis, autoimmune hepatitis and Sjogren's syndrome.

Chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome may be a manifestation of chronic EBV infection.

Often associated with viruses of the herpes group (which includes the Epstein-Barr virus). Typical symptoms of chronic EBV infection: enlarged lymph nodes, especially cervical and axillary, pharyngitis and low-grade fever, combined with severe asthenic syndrome. The patient complains of fatigue, decreased memory and intelligence, inability to concentrate, headache and muscle pain, and sleep disturbances.

There is no generally accepted treatment regimen for EBV infection. In the arsenal of doctors today there are nucleosides (Acyclovir, Ganciclovir, Famciclovir), immunoglobulins (Alfaglobin, Polygam), recombinant interferons (Reaferon, Cycloferon). However, a competent specialist should decide how to take them and whether it is worth doing at all after a thorough study, including laboratory research.

Which doctor should I contact?

If a patient has symptoms of an Epstein-Barr virus infection, they should be evaluated and treated by an infectious disease specialist. However, often such patients first turn to a general practitioner/pediatrician. If complications or diseases associated with the virus develop, consultations with specialized specialists are prescribed: a hematologist (for bleeding), a neurologist (for the development of encephalitis, meningitis), a cardiologist (for myocarditis), a pulmonologist (for pneumonitis), a rheumatologist (for damage to blood vessels and joints). In some cases, consultation with an ENT doctor is required to rule out bacterial tonsillitis.

Epstein-Barr virus belongs to the family of herpesvirus infections, one of the most common hidden viruses

Epstein-Barr virus is one of the most common hidden viruses belonging to the family of herpesvirus infections. According to statistics, 90% of the population globe are infected with EBV infection, but in most cases people do not even know about it.

Description

Epstein-Barr virus is a type 4 microorganism. It enters B-lymphocytes, but does not have a destructive effect on them, but rearranges them. This infection not only affects, but also negatively affects the central nervous system. In addition, it is able to penetrate all human organs.

Epstein-Barr virus enters B-lymphocytes, but does not have a destructive effect on them, but changes them

EBV can be transmitted in the following ways:

Airborne. During conversation and sneezing, saliva from the patient's nasopharynx enters the air, which, if inhaled, can infect a healthy person.
Contact and household. One common route of transmission is kissing. Infection through dishes and personal hygiene items is also possible.
Transmissible. This route occurs during blood transfusions and during surgical operations when non-sterile syringes and instruments were used.
Transplacental. The infection is transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy and childbirth, as well as during lactation.
Nutritional. It is quite rare. Infection occurs through water and food.

Epstein-Barr virus can have an acute or chronic course. It is capable of hitting various internal organs, while the patient may not feel any signs for a long time.

Varieties of the virus

Depending on what pathology is provoked by EBV infection, experts identify 3 antigens to the virus:

EBV-VCA (capsid antigen);
EBV-EA (early stage antigen);
EBV-EBNA (nuclear antigen).

Viral capsid antigens IgG cause the appearance of antibodies to them exclusively in the acute phase. Their level decreases after 30-90 days.

Antibodies to the early antigen develop during the acute stage, but this occurs much more slowly. Their concentration decreases 60 days after infection with EBV infection. Antibodies may completely disappear after 1 year.

Antibodies to the nuclear antigen of the virus are produced only 30 days after infection with EBV infection. They can remain in the patient's lymph throughout his life and are considered indicators.

You can easily become infected with the Epstein-Barr virus by kissing a person who carries the virus.

What diseases can be caused by EBV infection?

Epstein-Barr virus can cause the following diseases:

Infectious mononucleosis;
on the lips;
genital herpes;
chronic fatigue syndrome;
cancer of the digestive tract;
rheumatoid;
blood cancer;
changes in the immune system.

In infectious mononucleosis, the virus multiplies in saliva, tonsils and lymph nodes. There are no obvious symptoms. In rare cases, a person complains of nasal congestion, drowsiness and fever, considering these to be signs of ARVI. The incubation period in this case can last from 5 days to 1.5 months.

If a patient has intoxication syndrome, the infection enters the blood and spreads throughout the body. Toxic substances negatively affect the central nervous system and other organs. Symptoms become noticeable within 5-7 days. Among them are the following:

weakness;
high body temperature;
chills;
pain in the joints.

With catarrhal symptoms, viruses enter the upper Airways and cause an inflammatory process there. This may lead to the development of a bacterial or fungal infection. Patients complain of the following symptoms:

sore throat when swallowing;
runny nose accompanied by green-yellow nasal discharge;
the appearance of ulcers in the mouth.

If the infection appears in lymph nodes, the number of B lymphocytes increases, which leads to inflammation of the lymphatic system. Enlarged nodes do not cause pain and do not show signs of suppuration.

With an enlarged liver or spleen, the patient is concerned about the following symptoms:

pain in the abdomen;
nausea and vomiting;
lack of appetite;
dark coloration of urine;
yellow tint to the skin.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is characterized by the following symptoms:

increased fatigue;
lack of energy regardless of load;
the feeling of weakness does not go away after rest;
aches throughout the body;
runny nose;
insomnia;
sudden mood swings;
decreased concentration;
forgetfulness.

Treatment

It is impossible to completely get rid of herpetic viruses, even if you promptly seek medical help and begin treatment. The Epstein-Barr virus remains in the blood for life, but may not manifest itself in any way. It becomes active when immunity decreases.

A patient with mild infectious mononucleosis is prescribed treatment at home. He must follow the following recommendations of the attending physician:

Semi-bed rest and lack of strong physical activity.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Fractional meals with the addition of vegetables and fruits, fermented milk products to the diet.
Avoiding spicy and fatty foods, as well as foods containing dyes and other chemical additives.
Refusal of foods that cause allergic reactions: citrus fruits, chocolate, legumes.

With chronic fatigue syndrome, the patient must limit himself from severe stress. It is recommended to do what you love, receive only positive emotions, and frequent walks in the fresh air.

For the treatment of generalized EBV infection and oncological pathologies caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, the following drugs are used:

Gerpevir;
Acyclovir;
Foscavir.

During the period of exacerbation of the chronic phase of EBV infection, the following medications are prescribed:

Interferon;
Isoprinasine;
Uracil.

These medications have antiviral and immunostimulating effects.

To remove infectious pathogens from the body in a hospital setting, the following drugs are used:

Polygamy;
Bioven;
Pentaglobin.

If a patient is diagnosed with a bacterial infection, then the doctor prescribes antibiotics:

Azithromycin;
Cefadox;
Lincomycin and others.

Note! For infectious mononucleosis, it is prohibited to use penicillin antibiotics.

During the recovery period, as well as for chronic fatigue syndrome, experts recommend taking multivitamins. The following complexes are effective:

Vitrum;
Neurovitan;
Pikovit.

To alleviate the patient's condition in acute mononucleosis, medications are used. These include the following:

Suprastin;
Claritin;
Tsetrin and others.

In case of severe intoxication and fever, it is effective to use Ibuprofen and Nimesulide, but their use is prohibited.

Ate at the patient's severe course Epstein-Barr virus, then you can’t do without glucocorticosteroids. The most common are Prednisolone and.

Atoxyl;
Enterosgel;
Polysorb.

To treat chronic fatigue syndrome, you should take the following medications:

antiviral - Gerpevir or Acyclovir;
vascular – Actovegin;
medications that have a sedative effect;
multivitamins.

Drug therapy can be supplemented folk remedies.

Traditional medicine in the fight against the Epstein-Barr virus

To increase immunity during EBV infection, it is allowed to use various means traditional medicine. One of the effective ones is tincture. Adults should take 30 drops 2 times a day. Children should be given 3-5 drops. Instead of tincture, you can use ginseng tincture, 10 drops at least 2 times a day.

Herbal teas are useful in the treatment of diseases accompanied by the Epstein-Barr virus

It is useful to use herbal preparations in the treatment of diseases accompanied by the Epstein-Barr virus. Useful properties The following herbs have:

coltsfoot;
chamomile flowers;
peppermint;
calendula flowers.

To prepare a medicinal product, you need to take herbs in equal proportions and stir. Then take 1 tbsp. l. the resulting mixture and pour 250 ml of boiling water. Brew for 15 minutes. Use 3 times a day.

For increase protective functions It's good for the body to drink green tea with lemon, ginger and natural.

If the lymph nodes are enlarged, the skin over them should be lubricated with fir oil.

Content

The disease, popularly called “kissing disease,” has nothing to do with sexually transmitted infections. The virus, which is carried by 90% of the planet's inhabitants, is considered poorly understood. It is only now that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has gained some “notoriety.” Most adults are immune to EBV because they had it as a child or teenager. 9 out of 10 adults who have contact with a child have the potential to infect him or her.

What is Epstein-Barr virus

EBV or EBV infection is herpes type 4, belongs to the herpesvirus family, causes infectious mononucleosis. It was named in honor of the virologists who discovered it in 1964. It is important to know how the pathogen is transmitted in order to follow safety measures. The route of infection is airborne, the source of infection is humans, the virus is transmitted through very close contact, often through kissing. Epstein-Barr virus DNA is found in saliva in laboratory tests.

Why is this pathogen dangerous? Penetrating into the lymphoid tissue, it affects the lymph nodes, tonsils, spleen and liver. The risk group for infection is children over one year old. In children under three years of age, the disease is often asymptomatic, and the diseases caused by the virus become more active during school and adolescence. There are very few cases of infection in people over 35 years of age. In 25% of pathogen carriers, infection particles are found in the saliva constantly, throughout their lives.

EBV causes the following diseases:

Infectious mononucleosis;
lymphogranulomatosis;
herpes;
multiple sclerosis;
tumors salivary glands and gastrointestinal tract;
lymphomas;
systemic hepatitis.

In rare cases, chronic mononucleosis is observed, a dangerous pathology with serious complications. Epstein-Barr virus and pregnancy are a separate topic. A viral infection in pregnant women is sometimes asymptomatic or may manifest only slightly; it is mistaken for the flu. If a woman’s immunity is weakened, the whole picture of infectious mononucleosis is observed. EBV is transmitted to the fetus and affects the course of pregnancy. The born child may suffer from damage to the nervous system, visual organs, and have other deviations from the norm.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of EBV are associated with infectious mononucleosis, referred to as EBV. The incubation period of the disease is from 2 days to 2 months. At the onset of the disease, the patient complains of fatigue, malaise, and a sore throat. At this time the temperature is normal, but after a few days it rises sharply to 40 °C. Symptoms appear:

enlarged lymph nodes in the neck up to 0.5-2 cm in diameter;
the tonsils swell and a purulent coating forms on them;
breathing through the nose is impaired;
the spleen (sometimes the liver) enlarges.

In children

Epstein-Barr virus in a child is often accompanied by a rash that lasts up to 10 days and gets worse from taking antibiotics. Rashes with infectious mononucleosis have different types:

spots;
dots;
papules;
roseola.

In adults

Recognizing the virus in an adult is not easy, for mature age The disease is atypical; such patients are rarely sent for analysis. Often in adults the disease occurs latently, the temperature remains at 37.5 °C, general malaise and long-term exhaustion are observed. EBV is closely associated with chronic fatigue syndrome and is one of the signs of infection.

What does a blood test for the virus tell you?

EBV is detected in the body in several ways; doctors prescribe:

a general blood test that detects atypical mononuclear cells;
biochemical analysis;
serological studies.

Specific diagnostic methods are PCR and ELISA tests. PCR detects viral DNA in biological fluids of the body, ELISA detects antibodies to its antigens. Antigen is a substance that is foreign to the body, such as viruses. For each of these hostile molecules, our immune system produces an antibody that recognizes a specific antigen and destroys it.

Antibody determination

A positive test for antibodies to infectious mononucleosis antigens means that the body is fighting the infection. Antibodies of the IgG and IgM classes and immunoglobulin proteins are produced against EBV. The virus has 3 main types of antigens that are recognized by our immune system:

VCA – capsid;
EBNA – nuclear or nuclear;
EA – early antigen.

To capsid antigen

IgM antibodies to the viral capsid protein, VCA, appear first. Their detection indicates an early stage of the disease; these immunoglobulins are characteristic of an acute infection. IgM disappears within 4-6 weeks from the onset of the primary infection. If the disease is reactivated, antibodies appear again. IgM is replaced by other antibodies to VCA, IgG, they persist for life.

To nuclear antigen

Antibodies to nuclear antigen are not detected at the acute stage. If the analysis identifies them, then the disease lasts for at least 6-8 weeks. The EBNA antigen is produced when the viral genome invades the nucleus of a body cell, hence its name. An antibody test not only confirms the infection caused by the virus, but also determines its stage.

How to treat Epstein-Barr virus

Specific medicines There is no cure for this infection. If you have a strong immune system, the disease passes naturally. EBV is often treated like the flu, symptomatically: antipyretic, antiviral. If the disease is acute, corticosteroids are prescribed to cure the patient. Children with EBV are prescribed:

"Acyclovir";

Candles "Viferon";

“Arbidol”, “Cycloferon” (adult patients also take them).

Human immunoglobulin is used in the complex of therapeutic agents. If the illness is mild, there is no need to go to the hospital. During periods of rising temperatures, it is recommended:

compliance with bed rest;
warm drink rich in vitamins;
gargling with antiseptics, nasal instillation with vasoconstrictor drugs;
reducing temperature with medications;
taking vitamins and antihistamines;
a diet that excludes junk food.

Treatment of Epstein-Barr virus in adults is the same as in children, the only differences are in the dosage of medications. Antibiotics are used if a secondary bacterial infection occurs or complications develop. Folk remedies against infections caused by EBV also have a positive effect. Help to get rid of the symptoms of the disease and weaken the virus:

decoctions of medicinal herbs and roots: chamomile, coltsfoot, ginseng, mint;
echinacea: 30 drops 3 times a day orally or apply compresses to abscesses;
linseed oil(take orally);
inhalations with sage, eucalyptus.

Anyone who treats a virus with folk remedies must take into account that the body needs additional strengthening. If pharmacy vitamin complexes are not suitable for you, include freshly squeezed juices in your diet: vegetable, fruit. Enrich your nutrition fatty acids, salmon and trout contain a lot of them. After illness, it is important to eat a balanced diet and avoid mental tension and stress.

Video: Komarovsky about the symptoms and treatment of the Epstein-Barr virus

It is almost impossible to avoid contact with EBV carriers, and disease prevention involves strengthening the immune system. An adult has a 95% chance that he has already had infectious mononucleosis. Is it possible to get it again, and how can you protect your child from this infection as much as possible? Famous pediatrician Evgeniy Komarovsky talks in detail about infection, symptoms and treatment of the virus.

Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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