Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) Epithelial Associated Malignancies: Exploring Pathologies and Current Treatments

Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Nov 19;23(22):14389. doi: 10.3390/ijms232214389.

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is one of eight known herpesviruses with the potential to infect humans. Globally, it is estimated that between 90-95% of the population has been infected with EBV. EBV is an oncogenic virus that has been strongly linked to various epithelial malignancies such as nasopharyngeal and gastric cancer. Recent evidence suggests a link between EBV and breast cancer. Additionally, there are other, rarer cancers with weaker evidence linking them to EBV. In this review, we discuss the currently known epithelial malignancies associated with EBV. Additionally, we discuss and establish which treatments and therapies are most recommended for each cancer associated with EBV.

Keywords: EBV; epithelial cancer; gastric cancer; latency; nasopharyngeal cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections* / complications
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections* / therapy
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human
  • Humans
  • Nasopharynx
  • Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial*
  • Stomach Neoplasms*