German researchers have demonstrated that there may be an association between the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) reactivation and disease activity in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients over time.

• 108 MS patients and 163 controls were assessed for the prevalence of antibodies against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), HSV-2, EBV, and cytomegalovirus (CMV).

• In contrast to the control populations, antibodies against EBV were present in 100% of MS patients.

• There was no significant differences between the groups for the other viruses.

• 19 of the MS patients were then followed monthly for 1 year, measuring active viral replication and it was noted that viral reactivation was seen in 72.7% of patients with exacerbations of their MS symptoms.

The authors suggest that EBV might play an indirect role in MS as an activator of the underlying disease process. This could therefore, have some clinical significance in the treatment of this difficult condion.

Neurology July 25, 2000; 55:178-84