What is it about?
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Commonly known for causing infectious mononucleosis or “mono,” EBV typically results in mild symptoms like fever, sore throat, and fatigue. • Cholestatic Hepatitis: In this condition, bile flow from the liver is reduced or blocked, leading to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) and elevated liver enzymes. • Hyperferritinaemia: This refers to unusually high levels of ferritin, a protein that stores iron. Elevated ferritin can indicate inflammation or liver damage.
Featured Image
Photo by Fusion Medical Animation on Unsplash
Why is it important?
This case highlights that EBV can, in rare instances, lead to significant liver problems even in individuals with no prior health issues. Recognising such atypical presentations is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate management.
Perspectives
As the lead author of this case report, I was intrigued by how a common virus like Epstein-Barr could present in such an unusual and severe way. This case served as an important reminder that even familiar conditions can surprise us in clinical practice. By sharing this experience, I hoped to raise awareness among healthcare professionals to consider EBV in the differential diagnosis of acute hepatitis with cholestatic features and hyperferritinaemia. It also reinforced the value of thorough investigation and maintaining a broad diagnostic approach, particularly when faced with atypical clinical presentations.
Paul Njoku
NHS
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Acute Epstein-Barr Virus Hepatitis With Cholestatic Jaundice and Hyperferritinaemia: A Case Report, British Journal of Hospital Medicine, April 2025, Mark Allen Group,
DOI: 10.12968/hmed.2024.0919.
You can read the full text:
Contributors
The following have contributed to this page
