Epstein-Barr Virus Central Nervous System Infections and Mortality Risk in Patients Presenting With Suspected Meningitis: Results From the Botswana National Meningitis Survey and the Harare Meningitis Aetiology Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) central nervous system (CNS) infection in immunocompromised hosts and among meningitis cohorts is well recognized. The clinical significance of EBV CNS infection, however, is poorly understood.

Methods

Data were collected as part of the Botswana National Meningitis Survey and the Harare Meningitis Aetiology Study. The prevalence of EBV CNS infection (EBV DNA detected in cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] by means of quantitative polymerase chain reaction) was determined, alongside associations with baseline covariates and the in-hospital mortality rate.

Results

A total of 581 participants with suspected meningitis were recruited. Of these, 54% were male, the median age (interquartile range) was 38 (29-46) years, and 76% were persons living w

SUBMITTER: Ellis J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12661572 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature