Immune Status of Epstein - Barr Virus-Infected Children With Secretory Middle Otitis

Abstract

Recently the role of herpes viruses in an aggravation of inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract, in particular, herpes simplex virus and Epstein − Barr virus, has become increasingly evident in otorhynolaryngology practice. To determine the extent of infection with Epstein − Barr virus and to study the immunogram of the first level for the children with secretory otitis media, 48 patients aged 3−9 years were examined for the purpose of an adequate treatment. Infection was revealed by serological diagnosis (enzyme immunoassay) with the determination of IgM to capsid complex (VCA) and IgG to early antigen (EA). Level 1 immunograms were also determined by immune enzyme analysis. Children with secretive middle otitis (22.9 %) were infected with Epstein − Barr virus, corresponding to an acute phase of the disease, as well as they had a reduce cell immunity. All children received comprehensive treatment for secretory middle otitis. It was concluded about the need for children with middle otitis to be screened for an infection with the Epstein−Barr virus and treated conservatively by an immunologist. Key words: secretory middle otitis media, etiology of Epstein − Barr virus, immune status of children, treatment.