Epstein-Barr virus: the impact of scientific advances on clinical practice

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a tumorigenic herpes virus that infects and persists in B lymphocytes in the majority of humans, generally without causing disease. However, in a few individuals the virus is associated with significant pathology, particularly benign and malignant lymphoproliferations. Recently acquired knowledge on the mechanisms of EBV persistence, immune control of primary and persistent infection, and disease pathogenesis is now being translated into the clinic with novel methods of diagnosis, prevention and treatment contributing to improved patient care. This review concentrates on these recent advances in the field of hematology/oncology.