Neurological Spectrum of Epstein-Barr Virus Infection: A Rare Clinical Case

TL;DR

A rare case of neurological complications caused by Epstein-Barr virus infection is reported, highlighting the importance of considering viral infections in similar clinical presentations.

Contribution

This paper presents a rare clinical case of EBV-induced neurological complications, emphasizing the need for viral testing in such scenarios.

Findings

A 61-year-old male presented with neurological symptoms linked to EBV infection.

Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment led to significant improvement in the patient's condition.

EBV serology confirmed Polyradiculoneuropathy secondary to EBV infection.

Abstract

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a DNA virus that has been infecting humans since ancient times, capable of causing a wide range of pathologies and affecting approximately 90% of the population.

A 61-year-old male with no significant medical history presented with a 5-day history of imbalance and difficulty walking. Neurological examination revealed specific findings, including absent reflexes, bilateral asynergy, and gait abnormalities. Contrasting with Guillain-Barré Syndrome, lumbar puncture suggested a central nervous system infection. Serological testing confirmed Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) positivity, and intravenous immunoglobulin led to significant improvement. Electromyogram results suggested inflammatory/ipnfectious polyradiculopathy. Repeat EBV serology, showing strongly positive IgG and negative IgM, confirmed the diagnosis of Polyradiculoneuropathy secondary to EBV. This case underscores the rare neurological complications of EBV and the importance of considering viral infections in such presentations.

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