The Definition of Epstein Barr Virus (EBV)'s Role in HTLV-III Infected USAF Personnel as Related to Disease Progression.
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to define the role of EBV in the progressive evolution of Acquired Immune Deficiency(AIDS) by means of a prospective evaluation of persons with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections. Detailed EBV antibody responses and virologic studies to determine the Epstein Barr Virus(EBV) load in body fluids and EBV strains were performed serially. The possible concurrent presence of HIV in EBV cell cultures established from body fluids from HIV infected persons also was examined. The HIV infected participants had an enhanced antibody response to a broad spectrum of EBV antigens. In addition, an increased amount of EBV was detected in oropharyngeal secretions as well as an increased proliferative ability of peripheral blood mononuclear cells compared to normal, healthy adults. The consequences of this highly increased burden of EBV in HIV patients are not well understood but could support the possibility that EBV may be a stimulus to produce tumors or other lymphoproliferative manifestations. No correlation was noted between specific EBV genotypes and progression of the HIV infection, but the numbers tested (and the changes in disease progression) were small at this point in the study. The continuation of this prospective study should allow for a better interpretation and extension of the present findings.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 27, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA191806
Entities
People
- Ciro V. Sumaya
Organizations
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio