Fatal hepatitis during Epstein-Barr virus reactivation

B. Cacopardo, G. Nunnari, M.T. Mughini, S. Tosto, F. Benanti, L. Nigro

Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialities, Unit of Infectious Diseases, University of Catania (Italy)

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• Gastroenterology

Fulminant hepatitis by Epstein-Barr virus is a rare event which is predominantly due to primary infection. We report a rare case of fatal hepatic failure due to Epstein-Barr virus reactivation in a 19-year-old boy who was taking oral steroids. Transaminase peak and the fulminant course of the disease began soon after steroid interruption. Epstein-Barr virus reactivation was diagnosed on the basis of past clinical history of heterophile-positive infectious mononucleosis, a high titer of IgG anti Epstein-Barr virocapsidic antigen, slight elevation of anti-virocapsidic IgM, a high titer of anti-EA IgG antibodies and elevated viral load in serum measured by polymerase chain reaction. It is concluded that Epstein-Barr virus should be considered as a possible etiological agent of fulminant hepatitis.

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