[Tumor Prevention and Treatment] EB virus positive ≠ nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is one of the most common malignant tumors in my country, and most patients are between 30 and 60 years old. Because the nasopharynx is relatively hidden, the symptoms and signs of nasopharyngeal carcinoma vary, and are easily ignored by patients. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is mainly prevalent in southern my country, including Guangdong, Guangxi, Hunan, Fujian and other provinces, and is particularly prevalent in Guangdong. Therefore, nasopharyngeal carcinoma is also called "Guangdong cancer."

The occurrence of nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a multi-factor, multi-stage process, mainly caused by genetics, environment, and Epstein-Barr virus infection. In recent years, some cities in Guangdong and Guangxi have successively launched free nasopharyngeal carcinoma early diagnosis and treatment projects. Through Epstein-Barr virus antigen testing, lifestyle surveys, and inquiries about family history of tumors for eligible residents, the risk of residents suffering from nasopharyngeal carcinoma is comprehensively assessed, and nasopharyngeal endoscopy and pathological biopsy are further carried out for people with higher risk. Therefore, Epstein-Barr virus positivity does not necessarily mean nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and the risk needs to be comprehensively assessed.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the pathogen of infectious mononucleosis. In areas where nasopharyngeal carcinoma is prevalent, more than 90% of nasopharyngeal carcinomas are related to EB virus. EB virus infection is one of the most important pathogenic factors of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. EB virus is very susceptible and can be transmitted through saliva, droplets, etc. Once infected, it is difficult to eliminate and will be carried for life.

A positive test result for EB virus antibodies does not necessarily mean that you have cancer. Among the normal population, 10% of people also have positive antibodies. At this time, nasopharyngeal endoscopy, MRI and other examinations are needed for identification. Only when the EB virus test value is significantly increased, it is of reference value and should be followed up regularly. It is recommended that the general population should check once a year, and the high-risk population should check once every six months!