Epstein–Barr virus infection leading to multiorgan involvement in an immunocompetent man

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a commonly asymptomatic widespread human herpes virus affecting over 90% of the population. It mostly originates complications like simple sore throat and infectious mononucleosis but severe manifestations are rare. Herein we report a 30‐year‐old immunocompetent man who presented with fever, sore throat, general weakness, and drowsiness. The diagnosis was formulated based on the positive RT‐PCR test for EBV DNA and serological detection of IgM antibody against viral capsid antigen. The patient developed severe meningoencephalitis, myocarditis, and bowel perforation and passed away after 72 days of hospitalization.

Keywords

• bowel perforation
• Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)
• meningoencephalitis
• multiorgan failure
• myocarditis