Question

Which of the following statements are correct about Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) infections.

(A) It is the cause of heterophile – positive infectious mononucleosis.
(B) EBV spreads by contact with oral secretions.
(C) Humoral immunity is more important than cellular immunity in controlling EBV
infections.
(D) Most EBV infection in infants and young children are either asymptomatic or mild.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below :

• A. A, B, C only
• B. A, C, D only
• C. A, B, D only
• D. C, D only

Hint:

\textbf{Virology: Epstein-Barr Virus.} Remember that EBV is a common human herpesvirus with diverse clinical manifestations depending on the age and immune status of the infected individual. Cellular immunity is key to controlling EBV-associated diseases.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Let's evaluate each statement regarding Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) infections: \begin{itemize} \item (A) It is the cause of heterophile – positive infectious mononucleosis: This statement is correct. EBV is the primary cause of heterophile-positive infectious mononucleosis, also known as the "kissing disease." \item (B) EBV spreads by contact with oral secretions: This statement is correct. EBV is mainly transmitted through saliva, which is why it is commonly associated with close contact like kissing. \item (C) Humoral immunity is more important than cellular immunity in controlling EBV infections: This statement is incorrect. While humoral immunity (antibody production) plays a role in EBV infection, cellular immunity, particularly cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), is crucial for controlling the infection by killing EBV-infected B cells. In immunocompromised individuals with impaired cellular immunity, EBV infections can be severe. \item (D) Most EBV infection in infants and young children are either asymptomatic or mild: This statement is correct. Primary EBV infection in young children often presents with few or no symptoms. Symptomatic infectious mononucleosis is more common when the primary infection occurs in adolescents or young adults. \end{itemize} Therefore, the correct statements about EBV infections are A, B, and D.