Acute hepatitis induced by Epstein-Barr virus infection: a case report

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus is a causative agent of infectious mononucleosis syndrome, which is commonly seen in young adults and characterized by fever, sore throat and lymphadenopathy. In adults, Epstein-Barr virus infection can cause liver function test abnormalities without pharyngitis or lymphadenopathy. Liver involvement usually causes mild elevation of transaminases and this abnormality resolves spontaneously. Jaundice might develop rarely during the clinical course of Epstein-Barr virus infection. It reflects either more severe hepatitis or Epstein-Barr virus infection-associated hemolytic anemia. Acute hepatitis with icterus is a rare clinical manifestation in primary Epstein-Barr virus infection. Especially in older patients, Epstein-Barr virus infection can cause cholestasis; the diagnosis can be established by elimination of extrahepatic biliary obstruction. Here we report an acute hepatitis in a patient who presented with icterus and was diagnosed as acute Epstein-Barr virus infection.