A Rare Association of Epstein-Barr Virus and Budd-Chiari Syndrome

TL;DR

A 29-year-old man developed Budd-Chiari syndrome after an Epstein-Barr virus infection, highlighting a rare connection between the virus and blood clotting disorders.

Contribution

This case report highlights a rare association between Epstein-Barr virus and Budd-Chiari syndrome, emphasizing infectious triggers in thrombosis.

Findings

A 29-year-old male developed Budd-Chiari syndrome following an Epstein-Barr virus infection.

Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome was identified as an underlying prothrombotic condition.

The case suggests the need to consider infectious triggers in diagnosing Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Abstract

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare hepatic venous outflow obstruction typically associated with hypercoagulable states. We present a unique case of a 29-year-old male with BCS triggered by a recent Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Workup unveiled antiphospholipid antibody syndrome as an underlying prothrombotic condition. Diagnostic challenges included inconclusive ultrasound findings, necessitating magnetic resonance imaging for confirmation. This case underscores the importance of considering infectious triggers for venous thromboembolism in BCS. Understanding the potential link between EBV and thrombosis warrants further investigation.

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