Epstein–Barr Virus — Increasing Evidence of a Link to Carcinoma

Abstract

In this issue of the Journal, Pathmanathan et al.¹ add a new dimension to the etiologic link between Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection and anaplastic nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Genetic and environmental factors have also been implicated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma.² In southern Chinese and some North African and Native American populations, it is a common cancer that causes substantial morbidity and mortality, even among young people. Although the carcinoma usually responds to radiotherapy, recurrences are frequent and difficult to treat.A close association between EBV and nasopharyngeal carcinoma was previously established by the following findings: the presence of EBV DNA, RNA, and proteins . . .