EBV
Medical abbreviation · Infectious Disease
| Stands for | Epstein-Barr virus |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
EBV stands for Epstein-Barr virus, an infectious disease abbreviation.
Herpesvirus that infects more than 90 percent of adults worldwide and causes infectious mononucleosis, with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue, especially in teenagers and young adults. It is linked to Burkitt lymphoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma and multiple sclerosis.
Example: Heterophile antibody positive, atypical lymphocytes: EBV mononucleosis; no contact sports for 4 weeks.
Usage notes
Named after Anthony Epstein and Yvonne Barr, who identified it in Burkitt lymphoma cells in 1964. The spleen can enlarge and rupture, so athletes are kept from contact sports for several weeks. Giving amoxicillin during mononucleosis often causes a widespread rash. Also known as human herpesvirus 4.
Related abbreviations
More infectious disease abbreviations
- CRAB – Carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii
- CRE – Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales
- CT – Chlamydia trachomatis
- DAA – Direct-acting antiviral
- DOT – Directly observed therapy
- E. coli – Escherichia coli
- EPT – Expedited partner therapy
- ESBL – Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase
- FUO – Fever of unknown origin
- GAS – Group A Streptococcus
- GC – Gonococcus (gonorrhea)
- GNR – Gram-negative rods
See all 92 infectious disease abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.