Fatal Epstein-Barr virus primo infection in a 25-year-old man treated with azathioprine for Crohn's disease

J Clin Microbiol. 2009 Apr;47(4):1252-4. doi: 10.1128/JCM.02052-08. Epub 2009 Feb 4.

Abstract

We report a case of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) primo infection with the development of successive infectious mononucleosis, hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, and B-cell lymphoproliferative disorder in a patient treated with azathioprine for Crohn's disease. This case report suggests that specific EBV-related clinical and virological management should be considered when treating a patient with inflammatory bowel disease with azathioprine.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Azathioprine / adverse effects*
  • Azathioprine / therapeutic use
  • Crohn Disease / complications*
  • Crohn Disease / drug therapy
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects*
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Male

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents
  • Azathioprine