To date, medicine has reached a level at which many viral diseases, previously considered incurable, have ceased to be a sentence. However, there are still some that people cannot completely get rid of. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of them. On the one hand, it is quite harmless, because over time, the body's defense system develops immunity to it. On the other hand, it can cause terrible complications in the form of cancer. Of particular danger is the fact that they become infected with it at a very early age. How does EBV manifest itself in children? What are the consequences?

What is Epstein-Barr virus?

Three-dimensional image of the Epstein-Barr virus

Behind the intricate name lies the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis - a virus that provokes the appearance of "kissing disease". He got his interesting nickname because in most cases the infection occurs through saliva.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the representatives of the family of herpes viruses of the 4th degree. The most understudied and at the same time widespread. Approximately 90% of the inhabitants of the entire planet are carriers in a latent or active form and potential sources of infection, despite the fact that this bacteriophage is considered less contagious than the well-known cold.

Scientists have proven that with a single entry into the body, the virus remains in it forever. Since it is impossible to completely remove it, in most cases EBV is simply put into a “sleeping” state using suppressive drugs.

Infectious mononucleosis has been known to mankind for a long time. It was first described at the end of the 19th century and was called glandular fever, because it was accompanied by an increase in lymph nodes, liver and spleen against a background of elevated temperature. Later, the surgeon D. P. Burkitt noticed him and recorded about 40 cases of infection while working in African countries. But everything was clarified only in 1964 by two English virologists Michael Epstein and Yvonne Barr (doctor's assistant). They found herpesvirus in tumor samples sent by Burkitt specifically for research. In their honor, the virus got its name.

Methods of infection

Kissing is one way to get infected with EBV

Basically, infection with the virus occurs in childhood. About 90% of people who come into contact with a child are able to infect him. The risk group is newborns under 1 year old. According to statistics, 50% of children in developing countries receive the virus from their mother during infancy. And by the age of 25, this figure rises to 90%. Most often, EBV is diagnosed between four and fifteen years of age.

The way the disease manifests itself does not depend on gender and race: both boys and girls suffer from it to the same extent and with equal frequency. But it is worth knowing that in areas dominated by low-income populations, herpesvirus is more common, but it proceeds in a latent form for almost 3 years.

Methods of infection:

• contact. With saliva through hugs or kisses. The largest number of viral particles is located in the cells next to the salivary glands and is released along with it;
• airborne. The pathogen collects in the mucous membranes of the pharynx, nose and nasopharynx and upper respiratory tract and is released to the surface when sneezing, yawning, coughing, screaming, and even simple conversation;
• with a blood transfusion from a donor. This manipulation is not so rare. Already in the maternity hospital, a baby can be prescribed it if anemia (low hemoglobin) is detected or the baby is born earlier than the expected date under certain circumstances;
• with bone marrow transplantation from a donor. The technique is used not only for oncological diseases, but also for diseases associated with human blood (anemia, hemorrhagic diathesis).

It is important to understand that 25% of carriers have the virus in their saliva all the time. This, in turn, suggests that they are carriers and sources of infection even in the absence of obvious symptoms throughout their lives.

Symptoms in children

Usually the incubation period lasts from 4 weeks to 1-2 months. Moreover, if the child is very small (up to 3 years), then the symptoms may not appear at all. But common for babies will be the following harbingers of the disease, which last an average of 10-14 days:

1. Fatigue and irritability. The baby often cries, but the problem cannot be found.
2. Enlarged lymph nodes. Mom may find seals or palpable bumps, for example, in the neck and near the ears. In severe cases - all over the body.
3. Indigestion and refusal to eat.
4. Rash. Not to be confused with allergic reactions to certain foods and dermatitis. In this case, it will look like a rash, as with scarlet fever.
5. Severe pharyngitis and high temperature (39–40 ° C).
6. Pain in the abdomen. This is due to the enlargement of the liver and spleen.
7. Sore throat and difficulty breathing. In the acute phase, as a rule, the adenoids increase.
8. Jaundice. But this is a very rare symptom and occurs infrequently.

Many symptoms resemble a sore throat, and the more dangerous is self-medication, since taking antibiotics of the penicillin series will only exacerbate the disease and rash.

The Epstein-Barr virus, depending on the territory of distribution, manifests itself in different ways. In the European part of the population, among the main symptoms are fever, swollen lymph nodes. In China, especially in the southern regions, the disease can provoke nasopharyngeal cancer. In parts of Africa, herpesvirus can cause malignant tumors (Burkitt's lymphoma).

Symptoms of the disease (gallery)

Enlarged lymph nodes Irritability Jaundice Heat

Diagnostics

PCR is used to diagnose EBV

Laboratory methods are used to diagnose the virus in a patient. The most common are shown in the following table:

The difficulty or, rather, the peculiarity of diagnosis lies in the fact that the first three types of studies speak of general indicators and do not specifically detect the Epstein-Barr virus. The latter are more accurate, but are rarely prescribed by doctors. Timely diagnosis of mononucleosis will help to avoid complications and contribute to its rapid relief.

Treating a child at home

Child under treatment

First you need to see a doctor to determine how the Epstein-Barr virus interacts with the baby's body. If the latter is only a carrier and there are no clinical signs, then treatment is not prescribed.Otherwise, the child is placed in an infectious diseases hospital or treatment is performed on an outpatient basis.

There are no special means, like a vaccine. Usually, the immune system copes by itself, but if there is a risk of complications, then complex therapy with antiviral agents is prescribed:

• "Acyclovir" or "Zovirax" up to 2 years. Duration: 7–10 days;
• "Viferon 1" in the form of rectal suppositories for children under 7 years old;
• "Cycloferon" is injected into babies;
• "Intron A", "Roferon - A", "Reaferon - EC", if the disease is in the chronic stage.

In this case, it is important to comply with a number of requirements:

• adhere to bed rest;
• avoid physical activity for at least a month even after improvement;
• drink more fluids to avoid intoxication;
• take antipyretics (Panadol, Paracetamol) and antihistamines (Tavegil, Fenistil), as well as vitamins, especially vitamin C (you can give lemon water);
• gargle with various decoctions (sage, chamomile) or furacilin;
• bury the nose with vasoconstrictor drugs. But it is worth remembering that they are addictive. Therefore, they should not be used for more than 3 days.

All these points should be performed only after examination by a pediatrician. No need to self-medicate. Even the use of folk remedies can cause serious consequences for the baby.

Since during the course of infectious mononucleosis the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates is disturbed, and the immune system is weakened, a special diet is indicated, which consists in the use of:

• fresh vegetables;
• sweet berries;
• lean fish (pollock, cod). It is better to boil or steam it;
• lean meat (beef, rabbit);
• cereals (buckwheat, oatmeal);
• bakery products (preferably dried);
• dairy products (hard cheese, cottage cheese).

It is possible to introduce eggs into the diet, but not more than one per day. Fatty foods should be avoided. Sweets should be eaten in moderation.

Vegetables contain vitamins that help support the immune system Buckwheat contains useful trace elements and vitamins that help the body fight the disease. Fruit contains vitamins that help support the immune system Toasted bread contains complex carbohydrates It is necessary to use cottage cheese, as it contains protein Beef is high in protein and low in fat.

Is quarantine necessary

Treatment usually involves keeping the child at home for a certain amount of time, as with any cold. If circumstances require (for example, many educational institutions do not allow missed visits without presenting a certificate from the doctor), then the doctor gives sick leave for approximately 12 days during the acute phase of the disease. No quarantine required.

recovery prognosis

The prognosis for infection with the virus is quite favorable if:

• the child does not suffer from immune diseases;
• preventive measures were taken from an early age;
• quality treatment provided
• the disease has not been started;
• there are no complications.

The virus is activated with a weakened or depleted immune system, intoxication.

It is impossible to completely eliminate the Epstein-Barr virus. It is simply put into "sleep mode". Therefore, parents should know that routine vaccination can awaken the disease. It is always necessary to warn the doctor that the child has had mononucleosis. In addition, you should regularly undergo scheduled examinations and take appropriate tests.

Possible Complications

Anemia as a complication

In the absence of high-quality and timely treatment, complications may develop. The most common are:

• anemia. It occurs due to a decrease in the blood erythrocytes, leukocytes and platelets. Sometimes accompanied by hemoglobinuria and jaundice;
• damage to the central nervous system (encephalitis and meningitis);
• damage to the cranial nerves, which leads to Martin-Bell syndrome (delayed psychomotor development), myelitis, neuropathy, etc .;
• otitis and sinusitis;
• difficulty breathing due to enlarged lymph nodes;
• rupture of the spleen (if the patient overdoes it with physical activity during the course of the disease);
• hepatitis, which has a rapid course.

The specific ones include:

• proliferative syndrome. It is mainly characteristic of people who already have immune diseases. In a short period of time, the number of B-lymphocytes increases, which leads to disturbances in the work of many internal organs. The congenital form is very dangerous, since the death of the child occurs even before going to the doctor. Those whom doctors manage to save are later diagnosed with various forms of anemia, lymphomas, hypogammaglobulinemia, agranulocytosis;
• hairy leukoplakia of the mouth. Tubercles appear on the tongue and inside of the cheeks. This is often one of the first symptoms of HIV infection;
• malignant tumors: Burkitt's lymphoma, undifferentiated nasopharyngeal cancer, tonsil cancer.

Dr. Komarovsky about infectious mononucleosis (video)

EBV prevention

The virus is quite common, so it is almost impossible to avoid infection with it. But there is a positive side: even when infected in adulthood, human immunity manages to develop the necessary antibodies to fight.

The vaccine is currently under development, so the most effective way is to systematically and comprehensively strengthen immunity:

• cold hardening from an early age, walking in the fresh air;
• taking vitamins. It is worth saying here that only a doctor should prescribe vitamin complexes. Otherwise, it will not strengthen the immune system, but only undermine health;
• balanced diet. As you know, about 80% of the cellular elements of the immune system are in the intestines, so proper diet planning is necessary: ​​eating a sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables. Products with dyes and chemical additives should be avoided;
• timely and high-quality treatment of somatic diseases. Do not get carried away with self-medication, even if you think that you know what you are sick with, you should remember that many ailments are well masked and proceed with similar symptoms. This is especially true for children;
• move more. Sports need to be instilled from an early age. In addition to good immunity, the child will have an excellent physical and psychological condition;
• avoid stress;
• visit public places less often.

Preventive measures (gallery)

Hardening the baby Taking vitamins Balanced diet Sports

Like many other diseases, the Epstein-Barr virus is terrible for its consequences. Parents need to be especially vigilant and closely monitor the well-being of the child. If you notice any symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor. It is better to play it safe once again than to use potent drugs and complex therapy later. Health to you and your baby!

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of the members of the family of herpes infections. Its symptoms, treatment and causes in adults and children are also similar to cytomegalovirus (herpes no. 6). VEB itself is called herpes under number 4. In the human body, it can be stored dormant for years, but with a decrease in immunity, it is activated, causes acute infectious mononucleosis and later - the formation of carcinomas (tumors). How else does the Epstein bar virus manifest itself, how is it transmitted from a sick person to a healthy one, and how to treat the Epstein Barr virus?

What is Epstein Barr virus?

The virus got its name in honor of researchers - professor and virologist Michael Epstein and his graduate student Yvona Barr.

Einstein bar virus has two important differences from other herpes infections:

• It does not cause the death of host cells, but on the contrary, it initiates their division, tissue growth. This is how tumors (neoplasms) are formed. In medicine, this process is called polyferation - pathological growth.
• It is stored not in the ganglia of the spinal cord, but inside immune cells - in some types of lymphocytes (without their destruction).

The Epstein-Barr virus is highly mutagenic. With a secondary manifestation of infection, it often does not give in to the action of antibodies developed earlier, at the first meeting.

Manifestations of the virus: inflammation and tumors

Epstein-Barr disease is acute like flu, cold, inflammation. Prolonged low-level inflammation initiates chronic fatigue syndrome and tumor growth. At the same time, for different continents, there are specific features of the course of inflammation and localization of tumor processes.

In the Chinese population, the virus often forms nasopharyngeal cancer. For the African continent - cancer of the upper jaw, ovaries and kidneys. For residents of Europe and America, acute manifestations of infection are more characteristic - high fever (up to 40º for 2-3 or 4 weeks), enlargement of the liver and spleen.

Epstein Barr virus: how is it transmitted

Epstein bar virus is the least studied herpetic infection. However, it is known that the ways of its transmission are diverse and extensive:

• airborne;
• contact;
• sexual;
• placental.

The source of infection through the air is people in the acute stage of the disease.(those who cough, sneeze, blow their nose - that is, they deliver the virus into the surrounding space along with saliva and mucus from the nasopharynx). In the period of acute illness, the predominant method of infection is airborne.

After recovery(decrease in temperature and other symptoms of SARS) infection is transmitted by contact(with kisses, handshakes, shared utensils, during sex). EBV stays in the lymph and salivary glands for a long time. A person is able to easily transmit the virus through contact during the first 1.5 years after the disease.. Over time, the likelihood of transmitting the virus decreases. However, studies confirm that 30% of people have the virus in their salivary glands for the rest of their lives. In the other 70%, the body suppresses a foreign infection, while the virus is not found in saliva or mucus, but is stored dormant in blood beta-lymphocytes.

If there is a virus in human blood ( virus carrier) it is able to be transmitted from mother to child through the placenta. In the same way, the virus is spread through blood transfusions.

What happens when you get infected

The Epstein-Barr virus enters the body through the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx, mouth, or respiratory organs. Through the mucosal layer, it descends into the lymphoid tissue, penetrates into beta-lymphocytes, and enters the human blood.

Note: the action of the virus in the body is twofold. Some of the infected cells die. The other part - starts to share. At the same time, different processes predominate in the acute and chronic stages (carriage).

In acute infection, the infected cells die. In chronic carriage, the process of cell division is initiated with the development of tumors (however, such a reaction is possible with weakened immunity, but if protective cells are sufficiently active, tumor growth does not occur).

The initial penetration of the virus is often asymptomatic. Epstein-Barr virus infection in children manifests visible symptoms only in 8-10% of cases. Less often, signs of a general disease are formed (5-15 days after infection). The presence of an acute reaction to infection indicates a low immunity, as well as the presence of various factors that reduce the protective reactions of the body.

Epstein Barr virus: symptoms, treatment

Acute infection with a virus or its activation with a decrease in immunity is difficult to distinguish from a cold, acute respiratory disease or SARS. Epstein Bar's symptoms are called infectious mononucleosis. This is a general group of symptoms that accompany a number of infections. By their presence, it is impossible to accurately diagnose the type of disease, one can only suspect the presence of an infection.

In addition to the signs of the usual acute respiratory infections, symptoms of hepatitis, sore throats, and a rash may be observed. The manifestations of the rash increase when the virus is treated with penicillin antibiotics (such erroneous treatment is often prescribed for incorrect diagnosis, if instead of a diagnosis of EBV, a person is diagnosed with tonsillitis, acute respiratory infections). Epstein-Barr virus infection in children and adults, treatment of viruses with antibiotics is ineffective and fraught with complications.

Epstein Barr infection symptoms

In the 19th century, this disease was called an unusual fever, in which the liver and lymph nodes increase, and the throat hurts. At the end of the 21st century, it received its own name - Epstein-Barr infectious mononucleosis or Epstein-Barr syndrome.

Signs of acute mononucleosis:

• Symptoms of ARI- Feeling unwell, fever, runny nose, swollen lymph nodes.
• Hepatitis symptoms: enlarged liver and spleen, pain in the left hypochondrium (due to enlarged spleen), jaundice.
• Symptoms of angina: soreness and redness of the throat, enlarged cervical lymph nodes.
• Signs of general intoxication: weakness, sweating, soreness in muscles and joints.
• Symptoms of inflammation of the respiratory organs: difficulty breathing, cough.
• Signs of damage to the central nervous system: headache and dizziness, depression, sleep disturbances, attention, memory.

Signs of a chronic virus carrier:

• chronic fatigue syndrome, anemia.
• Frequent recurrences of various infections- bacterial, viral, fungal. Frequent respiratory infections, digestive problems, boils, rashes.
• Autoimmune diseases- rheumatoid arthritis (joint pain), lupus erythematosus (redness and rashes on the skin), Sjögren's syndrome (inflammation of the salivary and lacrimal glands).
• Oncology(tumors).

Against the background of a sluggish infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, a person often manifests other types of herpetic or bacterial infection. The disease acquires an extensive character, is characterized by the complexity of diagnosis and treatment. Therefore, the Einstein virus often occurs under the guise of other infectious chronic diseases with undulating manifestations - periodic exacerbations and remission stages.

Virus carrying: chronic infection

All types of herpesviruses settle in the human body for life. Infection is often asymptomatic. After the initial infection, the virus remains in the body until the end of life.(stored in beta lymphocytes). In this case, a person often does not know about the carriage.

The activity of the virus is controlled by antibodies produced by the immune system. Unable to multiply and express itself actively, the Epstein-Barr infection sleeps as long as the immune system functions normally.

EBV activation occurs with a significant weakening of protective reactions. The reasons for this weakening may be chronic poisoning (alcoholism, industrial emissions, agricultural herbicides), vaccinations, chemotherapy and radiation, tissue or organ transplants, other surgeries, prolonged stress. After activation, the virus spreads from lymphocytes to the mucous surfaces of hollow organs (nasopharynx, vagina, ureteral canals), from where it gets to other people and causes infection.

Medical Fact: herpetic-type viruses are found in at least 80% of people examined. Bar infection is present in the body of the majority of the adult population of the planet.

Epstein Barr: Diagnosis

Symptoms of Epstein Barr virus are similar to signs of infection cytomegalovirus(also herpetic infection under No. 6, which is manifested by prolonged acute respiratory infections). To distinguish the type of herpes, to name the exact virus-causative agent - is possible only after laboratory tests of blood, urine, saliva tests.

The Epstein Barr virus test includes several laboratory tests:

• Blood tests for Epstein Barr virus. This method is called ELISA (enzymatic immunoassay) determines the presence and amount of antibodies to infection. In this case, primary antibodies of type M and secondary type G may be present in the blood. Immunoglobulins M are formed during the first interaction of the body with an infection or when it is activated from a dormant state. Immunoglobulins G are formed to control the virus in chronic carriage. The type and amount of immunoglobulins makes it possible to judge the primacy of infection and its duration (a large titer of G bodies is diagnosed with a recent infection).
• Examine saliva or other body fluid (mucus from the nasopharynx, discharge from the genitals). This survey is called PCR, it is aimed at detecting virus DNA in samples of liquid media. The PCR method is used to detect various types of herpes viruses. However, when diagnosing Epstein-Barr virus, this method shows low sensitivity - only 70%, in contrast to the sensitivity of detecting herpes types 1,2 and 3 - 90%. This is because the bara virus is not always present in biological fluids (even when infected). Since the PCR method does not give reliable results of the presence or absence of infection, it is used as a confirmation test. Epstein-Barr in saliva - says there is a virus. But it does not show when the infection occurred, and whether the inflammatory process is associated with the presence of the virus.

Epstein-Barr virus in children: symptoms, features

Epstein-Barr virus in a child with normal (average) immunity may not show painful symptoms. Therefore, infection with the virus in children of preschool and primary school age often occurs imperceptibly, without inflammation, fever and other signs of illness.

Epstein-Barr virus in adolescents is more likely to cause a painful manifestation of the infection- mononucleosis (fever, enlarged lymph nodes and spleen, sore throat). This is due to a lower protective reaction (the reason for the deterioration of immunity is hormonal changes).

Epstein-Barr disease in children has features:

• The incubation period of the disease is reduced - from 40-50 days they are reduced to 10-20 days after the virus has penetrated the mucous membranes of the mouth, nasopharynx.
• Recovery time is determined by the state of immunity. Protective reactions of a child often work better than an adult (they say addictions, a sedentary lifestyle). Therefore, children recover faster.

How to treat Epstein-Barr in children? Does treatment depend on the person's age?

Epstein-Barr virus in children: treatment of acute infection

Since EBV is the least studied virus, its treatment is also under research. For children, only those drugs are prescribed that have passed the stage of long-term testing with the identification of all side effects. Currently, there are no antiviral drugs for EBV that are recommended for the treatment of children of any age. Therefore, children's treatment begins with general maintenance therapy, and only in cases of urgent need (threat to the life of the child) are antiviral drugs used. How to treat the Epstein bar virus in the stage of acute infection or when chronic carriage is detected?

In an acute manifestation, the Epstein-Barr virus in a child is treated symptomatically. That is, when symptoms of sore throat appear, they rinse and treat the throat, when symptoms of hepatitis appear, drugs are prescribed to maintain the liver. Mandatory vitamin and mineral support of the body, with a long protracted course - immunostimulating drugs. Vaccination after suffering mononucleosis is postponed for at least 6 months.

Chronic carriage is not subject to treatment if it is not accompanied by frequent manifestations of other infections, inflammations. With frequent colds, measures to strengthen immunity are necessary- tempering procedures, outdoor walks, physical education, vitamin and mineral complexes.

Epstein-Barr virus: treatment with antiviral drugs

Specific treatment of the virus is prescribed when the body cannot cope with the infection on its own. How to treat Epstein bar virus? Several areas of treatment are used: counteracting the virus, supporting one's own immunity, stimulating it and creating conditions for the full course of protective reactions. Thus, the treatment of the Epstein-Barr virus uses the following groups of drugs:

• Immunostimulants and modulators based on interferon (a specific protein that is produced in the human body during the intervention of a virus). Interferon-alpha, IFN-alpha, reaferon.
• Drugs with substances that inhibit the reproduction of viruses inside cells. These are valaciclovir (Valtrex drug), famciclovir (Famvir drug), ganciclovir (Cymeven drug), foscarnet. The course of treatment is 14 days, with intravenous administration of drugs recommended for the first 7 days.

Important to know: The effectiveness of acyclovir and valaciclovir against Epstein-Barr virus is under investigation and has not been scientifically proven. Other drugs - ganciclovir, famvir - are also relatively new and insufficiently studied, they have a wide list of side effects (anemia, disorders of the central nervous system, heart, digestion). Therefore, if Epstein-Barr virus is suspected, treatment with antiviral drugs is not always possible due to side effects and contraindications.

When treating in hospitals, hormonal drugs are also prescribed:

• Corticosteroids - hormones to suppress inflammation (they do not act on the causative agent of the infection, they only block the inflammatory process). For example, prednisone.
• Immunoglobulins - to support immunity (administered intravenously).
• Thymic hormones - to prevent infectious complications (thymalin, thymogen).

When low titers of the Epstein-Barr virus are detected, treatment can be restorative - vitamin s (as antioxidants) and drugs to reduce intoxication ( sorbents). This is supportive therapy. It is prescribed for any infections, diseases, diagnoses, including those with a positive analysis for the Epstein-Barr virus. Treatment with vitamins and sorbents is allowed for all categories of sick people.

How to cure Epstein Barr virus

Medical research is asking the question: Epstein-Barr virus - what is it - a dangerous infection or a calm neighbor? Is it worth it to fight the virus or take care of maintaining immunity? And how to cure the Epstein-Barr virus? Medical responses are mixed. And until a sufficiently effective cure for the virus is invented, one must rely on the body's immune response.

A person has all the necessary reactions to protect against infections. To protect against foreign microorganisms, you need good nutrition, limiting toxic substances, as well as positive emotions, lack of stress. Failure in the immune system and infection with the virus occurs when it is weakened. This becomes possible with chronic poisoning, long-term drug therapy, after vaccination.

The best treatment for a virus is create healthy conditions for the body, cleanse it of toxins, provide good nutrition, give the opportunity to produce their own interferons against infection.

Due to the fact that in childhood the immune system is not yet sufficiently formed, various pathologies are diagnosed in children much more often than in adults. One of the provocateurs of diseases is the Epstein-Barr virus, which in most cases becomes a provocateur of mononucleosis.

The infectious agent is not dangerous to the health of babies. Treatment with specific methods is necessary only in the case of an advanced course of the disease, which can be complicated by HIV infections.

The virus is a type 4 microorganism of herpes. Despite the fairly wide distribution, it has not been possible to fully study it so far.

When it enters B-lymphocytes, they are transformed. The source of infection is an infected person, with close contact with which you can become infected. In most cases, this happens when kissing.

As a result of laboratory tests, the DNA of the virus is found in saliva.

Scientists have proven that, once in the body, the infection remains there forever. Since the complete elimination of the virus is not possible, with the help of suppressive drugs it is transferred to a state of "sleep".

Reasons for development

In most cases, the virus enters the body during childhood.

The main risk group is children under 12 months, since it is at this age that an adult has close contact with a child.

According to statistics, about half of all infections occur during breastfeeding.

Other ways of transmission of the Epstein-Barr virus:

• Airborne. The pathogen accumulates on the mucous membranes of the nose, nasopharynx, upper respiratory tract. When coughing, sneezing, even when talking, it is released to the surface.
• Contact. It is mainly transmitted by kissing, as it is found in saliva in large quantities.
• Bone marrow transplantation.
• Donor blood transfusion.

Characteristic symptoms

With a sufficiently good immunity in a child, infection manifests itself in the form of a common cold. In some cases. It can occur without showing any symptoms.

With a weakened immune system, the clinical picture will be significantly different. The incubation period lasts up to two months, after which the following symptoms are observed:

If timely measures are not taken to eliminate the disease, then the likelihood of developing many diseases increases:

• pneumonia;
• lymphomas;
• multiple sclerosis;
• hepatitis and others.

Often, experts mistake this ailment for other pathologies, which greatly complicates its course and worsens the condition. With untimely action, there is a high probability of a sharp negative outcome.

Diagnostics

To differentiate mononucleosis from other diseases, the following research methods are used:

• general blood analysis;
• polymer chain reaction;
• cultural method;
• serological diagnostics - allows you to determine antibody titers, especially if there are signs of infectious mononucleosis;
• studies to identify a specific type of antibody to the pathogen. This method is appropriate when examining children who do not yet have heterophile-type antibodies.

All of these diagnostic studies can detect the DNA of the virus or its particles in individual tissues or blood.

Only an experienced specialist can determine the range of necessary examinations.. Independent struggle with the problem and diagnosis will not bring a positive result, but can only aggravate the situation.

How to treat?

As a rule, there are no specially selected measures for the treatment of the virus at the moment. Therapy is carried out by an oncologist or an infectious disease specialist. With infectious mononucleosis, the child is hospitalized.

Medications

The following groups of drugs are prescribed as drug therapy:

• antibiotics - Sumamed, Tetracycline;
• antiviral - Acyclovir, Valtrex, Isoprinosine;
• immunoglobulins - Intraglobin;
• antiallergic - Tavegil;
• immunomodulators - Likopid, Derinat;
• stimulants of biological origin - Actovegin;
• vitamins - Sanasol, Alphabet.

Paracetamol, an antipyretic drug, may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

If a cough appears, Mukaltin or Libexin is prescribed. For problems with breathing through the nose, drops are used - Nazivin.

The duration of treatment will directly depend on the severity of the infection.

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine methods are not able to eliminate the cause of the disease - the Epstein-Barr virus.

To reduce sore throats, you can use prepared infusions based on medicinal chamomile, sage and mint. Used as a mouthwash.

Rosehip decoction, hot currant or raspberry tea will also be effective.

other methods

Since infectious mononucleosis disrupts the metabolic process and weakens the immune system, it is necessary to adhere to a special diet, in which it is recommended to consume the following products:

• fresh vegetables;
• lean meat;
• lean fish;
• milk products;
• sweet berries;
• buckwheat and oatmeal;
• dried baked goods.

You can eat one boiled egg per day.

Fatty foods are contraindicated, as well as sweets in moderation.

According to Dr. Komarovsky, most of the children have already been exposed to the Epstein-Barr virus with minimal symptoms.

The pediatrician claims that in the presence of a disease without an immunodeficiency state, only symptomatic therapy should be used. Treatment with antiviral and immunostimulating drugs is not necessary.

With the Epstein-Barr virus, heavy physical exertion should not be allowed to affect the child's body. In addition, it is necessary to limit sports activities as much as possible. This is done with the aim that since the disease causes an increase in the spleen, the risk of its rupture increases significantly.

Possible consequences

First of all, the danger of the virus lies in the fact that it has many different manifestations. For this reason, even experienced specialists are not always able to understand what it is, often confusing it with other diseases. Only after the necessary diagnostic studies have been carried out, it is possible to establish infection with the herpes virus type 4 in the baby.

The disease is dangerous because it can spread through the bloodstream and multiply in the bone marrow, which subsequently leads to damage to any organ of the child's body.

Among the main, most dangerous consequences are:

• oncological diseases;
• heart failure;
• disorders of the nervous system that cannot be cured;
• pneumonia;
• decreased immunity;
• rupture of the spleen as a result of its gradual increase.

Preventive measures

Epstein-Barr virus (abbreviated as EBV), or Epstein-Barr virus, or human herpes virus type 4, is a type of virus in the herpesvirus family. Initially found in tumors and described in 1964 by English professor Michael Epstein and graduate student Yvonne Barr. Why is it important for parents to know about it?

The "place of residence" of EBV is lymphocytes, so it defeats the child's immune defenses. EBV causes Burkitt's lymphoma, lymphogranulomatosis, cytomegalovirus, hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis, herpes, and other unpleasant diagnoses.

It is more likely to catch the virus during adolescence, especially at a younger age (5-6 years). After the child has been ill, antibodies are produced, this is lifelong protection against EBV. It is not yet possible to develop a vaccine capable of fighting EBV, because the virus completely changes its protein composition at different stages.

The Epstein-Barr virus is very specific and very dangerous: once it enters the body, it can be in a "sleeping" state for a long time - the immune defense restrains it. As soon as the immune system fails, the child becomes ill.

The British call this attack "kissing disease", because the pathogen is transmitted from parents to children through kisses, with saliva.

Other ways of infection: common things and toys, transfusion of blood and its components, through the placenta to a child during pregnancy, by airborne droplets, and also from a donor during bone marrow transplantation. In a special risk zone are children up to a year old, pulling everything that comes to hand into their mouths, and preschool children attending kindergartens.

Symptoms and diagnosis

The incubation period is from several days to two months, the first symptoms are similar to all viral infections. Very ambiguous signs in children:

• Regular fatigue for no reason, tearfulness, irritability, excessive whims;
• Noticeable or insignificant (submandibular, behind the ear or all over the body);
• Difficulties with digestion of food, loss of appetite;
• (infrequently);
• - up to 40 degrees;
• Profuse sweating;
• Sore throat (as with and);
• Enlarged liver and spleen. In children, aching pains in the abdomen are manifested;
• Rarely, the skin may acquire a yellow tint.

That is why even if there are several symptoms or only complaints, it is impossible to make a diagnosis of EBV. It requires the diagnosis of urine and blood tests (necessarily biochemistry), serological examination, PCR, ultrasound of the spleen and liver.

Course of the disease

Traditionally, VEB proceeds in several stages. The latent period is from several days to two months. The active period takes from 1 to 2 weeks, then a gradual recovery occurs.

At an early stage, the child appears unwell, it lasts about a week. And while the temperature remains normal. At the next stage, there is a sharp jump in temperature to 38–40 degrees. To this is added intoxication and polyadenopathy - a change in lymph nodes up to 2 cm. Traditionally, the posterior and anterior cervical lymph nodes increase, but it is also possible to change the lymph nodes at the back of the head, submandibular, above and below the collarbones, under the arms, in the inguinal region. On palpation, slight pain is felt.

In addition, the disease spreads to the tonsils, the picture resembles a sore throat. The back wall of the pharynx is covered with plaque, nasal breathing is difficult, the tonsils are enlarged. In the later stages, the Epstein-Barr virus affects the liver and spleen. Damage to the liver suggests its increase, there is heaviness in the right hypochondrium. Sometimes the urine turns dark in color, there is a slight jaundice. The spleen with EBV also increases in size.

Infectious mononucleosis

The most common disease caused by EBV - has specific symptoms. For quite a long time (from two weeks to a month) the high temperature does not subside. The picture of mononucleosis also includes: weakness, migraine, dysfunction of the gastrointestinal tract, joint pain. Without proper treatment, there is a risk of complications from the pulmonary system.

In infants, this infection occurs very rarely, since the baby is protected by mother's immunity, transmitted with milk. If signs of such a disease are detected, consult a doctor immediately - timely treatment will reduce the risk of consequences and normalize the condition of the crumbs. A stay in a hospital is not required in all situations, but in some cases it is possible.

Treatment

When contacting a doctor, they first try to establish the pathogen by examining the tests. With a ready diagnosis, depending on the degree of the disease, treatment begins. So, if the disease is in an acute form, then initially a decrease in the manifestations of symptoms and the reversal of the disease into a less intense phase are ensured. Usually treated with immunostimulants and antiviral drugs. Symptomatic treatment is mandatory: the doctor will prescribe gargles, means to reduce fever, and so on.

When the disease has a chronic appearance, the therapy is more complicated - physical exercises and a special diet are added to the medicines. In this case, changes in the menu are needed to reduce the load on the liver.

If infectious mononucleosis is caused by a virus, then therapy will be aimed at eliminating it. It is important to remember that the appointment of penicillin antibiotics for mononucleosis can cause serious complications. For example, the development of a rash that occurs with viral diseases.

The prognosis for children with Epstein-Barr virus is favorable, the disease can be cured within three weeks. But, despite the treatment, poor health and weakness still remain, perhaps for several months.

ethnoscience

Due to the fact that the approaches to the treatment of the disease differ among specialists, parents begin to doubt the correctness of conservative prescriptions - this encourages treatment with folk methods. But, before trying any remedy, you need to consult a doctor and make sure that your efforts will not harm the child.

The first thing that comes to mind is phytotherapy:

• Inhalations with sage and eucalyptus;
• Ginseng root tincture (for a child, the dose is up to ten drops);
• Chamomile, calendula flowers, coltsfoot, mint and duma root can be brewed and given to a child instead of tea no more than three times a day. These herbs contain many beneficial substances that improve the immune response, they also have a sedative effect;
• Sore throat can be smeared with oil of fir, juniper or sage;
• It will be useful to give the patient green tea, adding lemon and honey to it. Here it is important to remember about the possible.

Prevention

And finally, let us recall the common truth: any disease is easier to prevent than to treat. The tips below will help you avoid infection:

• A great habit of washing your hands more often is a good prevention of EBV in children.
• During epidemics, make sure that the child is minimally in crowded places, where, in addition, it is likely to catch the Epstein-Barr virus.
• Walking on the street, a balanced menu can also help a child resist infection. After all, if the virus is weak, it will begin to develop.

The child has caught an infection - you need to provide him with plenty of warm drink and bed rest. It is not worth feeding it, and it is better if the dishes are of a loose consistency.

Epstein-Barr virus is one of the most common viral pathologies affecting children. Despite the fact that this herpesvirus was discovered relatively recently, scientists have already established its characteristic features and developed effective methods of treatment. With untimely detection and elimination of the symptoms of this disease, this type of virus can lead to serious consequences. To avoid complications, parents should know how this pathology manifests itself and how it can be cured.

Epstein-Barr virus: what is it?

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), often erroneously called the Einstein-Barr virus, was first described in 1964 by the English scientist Michael Anthony Epstein and his assistant Yvonne Barr. This type 4 human herpes virus is nothing more than the causative agent of mononucleosis, one of the most common infections among humans. According to statistics, 9 out of 10 patients are carriers of a latent or active form of this disease, becoming a potential source of infection.

In most cases, infection occurs in early childhood, with infants under 1 year of age at higher risk. Most often, EBV is detected in children aged 4-15 years. The signs of the disease in boys and girls are the same, but this pathology is most common in dysfunctional families with low social status.

Once in the human body, the herpesvirus will live there until the end of life, since in modern medicine there are no ways to completely get rid of it. Often, with the help of drug therapy, the virus is transferred to a latent state, which is not as dangerous for children's health as its active stage.

Depending on the region of distribution, this disease manifests itself in different ways. For example, in Europeans, among the main symptoms of pathology, hyperthermic syndrome and an increase in lymph nodes are distinguished. In the Chinese, EBV often leads to malignant tumors of the nasopharynx, and in Africans, the herpes virus can provoke the development of Burkitt's lymphoma.

Methods of infection

There are the following ways of infection with a virus of this type:

Infection with the human herpes virus type 4 has a number of features:

• in most cases occurs in early childhood, for example, when kissing the mother;
• transmission of the causative agent of pathology is possible only with close contact of a healthy child with an infected person;
• the symptoms of the disease in children and adult patients are somewhat different.

Symptoms in children

Symptoms of the disease usually appear 30-45 days after the virus enters the child's body. However, in children under 3 years of age, the disease may be asymptomatic. Common signs of pathology include:

Many manifestations of the disease resemble the development of angina. In this case, self-medication is extremely dangerous, since the antibacterial drugs of the penicillin group, often used to eliminate the signs of a sore throat, can only exacerbate the problem.

With timely treatment, complete recovery occurs no earlier than after 14-21 days. Improving the child's condition may be replaced by periods of exacerbation of the disease - this indicates a weakening of the child's body. In some cases, recovery is delayed for several years.

VEB diagnostics

Treatment of the disease is prescribed only after an accurate diagnosis is made. If a child has symptoms of EBV, laboratory tests are immediately prescribed. Only timely diagnosis of the pathology allows avoiding serious consequences and contributes to the rapid elimination of the symptoms of the disease. The main diagnostic methods used to determine the human herpes virus type 4 are presented in the table.

When deciphering the serological analysis for EBV, it should be borne in mind that each laboratory conducting the study has its own normal indicators. They must be indicated on the form with the results of the analysis.

Child treatment

Modern medicine does not have the ability to completely eliminate the causative agent of mononucleosis. Standard treatment for the disease is aimed at:

• a decrease in the activity of the human herpes virus type 4 to transfer it to a latent state;
• normalization of the immune system of children;
• application of measures to prevent possible complications.

Along with taking medications, it is imperative to follow certain nutritional rules, exclude emotional overstrain and correct the daily regimen. The effectiveness of treatment is confirmed by the normalization of the results of a serological blood test.

Medical therapy

Drug therapy depends on the reaction of the child's body to the penetration of herpesvirus into it. In most cases, babies are treated with the following medications:

Together with the use of these drugs, symptomatic therapy is carried out:

• sprays with antiviral properties (Panavir, Inlight) and lozenges (Strepsils, Faringosept) help to cope with sore throats;
• with a runny nose, washing of the nasal passages with solutions of Aqualor and Aqua Maris is indicated, as well as the use of vasoconstrictor drugs, for example, Nazivin;
• medicines such as Nurofen and Panadol can be used to reduce fever in children;
• wet cough is effectively eliminated by Bromhexine and ACC, dry - by Libexin and Glauvent.

At the same time, it is strictly forbidden to use antibacterial drugs of the penicillin group (Ampicillin, Amoxicillin) - this can aggravate the course of the disease and provoke the appearance of rashes on the skin of the baby.

The use of antibiotic therapy is justified only in cases where the disease is complicated by sinusitis, otitis or pneumonia. In such a situation, antibacterial drugs of the group of macrolides and carbapenems are used.

Babies diagnosed with EBV are prescribed a course of taking a complex of vitamins and medicines to restore liver cells. During treatment, a small patient should be at home. If circumstances do not allow the baby to stay at home during therapy, the doctor writes him a sick leave for at least 12 days until the acute stage of the disease passes. After the illness, the baby must be registered with the dispensary for a year.

Infection leads to a violation of the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, as a result of which the defenses of the child's body are noticeably weakened. During treatment, the baby is shown a special diet food, which involves the inclusion of the following products in the daily diet:

Along with this, fatty foods should be excluded from the diet. The use of sweets and confectionery products should be minimized. The daily menu should contain no more than 1 egg.

Preventive measures

As noted earlier, due to insufficient knowledge of the human herpes virus type 4, there are currently no drugs that completely destroy the herpes virus. However, subject to reasonable safety measures, the baby can be protected from the development of this disease. At the same time, experts note that the sooner a small patient gets sick with this infection, the milder it will manifest itself.

Prevention of EBV is aimed at the systematic and comprehensive strengthening of the protective forces of the child's body, which implies compliance with the following measures:

1. Tempering babies from an early age.
2. Daily long exposure to fresh air.
3. Regular intake of a complex of vitamins. The appointment of vitamin preparations should be carried out by a pediatrician. Incorrectly selected funds can only undermine children's health.
4. Balanced diet. The daily menu should consist of a sufficient amount of fruits and vegetables, cereals and protein foods. The use of products containing artificial dyes and chemical additives should be avoided.
5. High motor activity. A kid from an early age should be taught to daily morning exercises. In addition, parents are encouraged to enroll their child in the sports section. At the same time, physical activity should be reasonable, regular excessive overexertion will not benefit the growing body.
6. Protecting the baby from frequent stays in crowded places.
7. Avoidance of stressful situations and emotional overstrain.
8. Timely and high-quality elimination of diseases. It is not recommended to self-medicate.

Like many other pathologies, EBV is dangerous with possible consequences. In order to avoid complications of the disease, parents should be attentive to the health of their child and, if the first signs of the disease are detected, immediately take measures to eliminate them. In this case, it is better to avoid infection than to eliminate its symptoms for a long and painful time.

Recovery prognosis

With timely treatment of EBV, the prognosis for recovery is favorable. The outcome of the disease depends on the following conditions:

• the absence of immune pathologies in a small patient;
• regular prophylaxis from an early age;
• quality treatment;
• seeking medical care in the early stages of the disease;
• no complications.

The causative agent of mononucleosis is activated when the defenses of the child's body are weakened. Routine vaccination can remove herpesvirus from a latent state. For this reason, on the eve of it, parents must inform the doctor about the fact of mononucleosis in the history of the baby.

Possible Complications

The likelihood of complications in the early stages of EBV infection is practically excluded. However, in advanced cases, the disease can cause the following negative consequences:

The risk group for complications caused by EBV includes children:

1. With primary and secondary immunodeficiency. In babies with a congenital disorder of immunological reactivity, the herpesvirus can provoke the development of a proliferative syndrome, which is fraught with a malfunction of the internal organs. This complication can lead to the death of the baby.
2. Suffering from genetic disorders.
3. Living in regions with the maximum survival rate of the pathogen.