Systematic review and meta-analysis of the sero-epidemiological association between Epstein Barr virus and multiple sclerosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

A role for Epstein Barr virus (EBV) in multiple sclerosis (MS) has been postulated. Previous systematic reviews found higher prevalences of anti-EBV antibodies in MS patients compared to controls, but many studies have since been published, and there is a need to apply more rigorous systematic review methods.

Methodology/principal findings

We examined the link between EBV and MS by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies that examined the prevalence of anti-EBV antibodies in the serum of cases and controls. We searched Medline and Embase databases from 1960 to 2012, with no language restriction. The Mantel-Haenszel odds ratios (OR) for anti-EBV antibodies sero-positivity were calculated, and meta-analysis conducted. Qual

SUBMITTER: Almohmeed YH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3621759 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature