[Acute respiratory distress syndrome complicating Ebstein-Barr virus pneumonia].
BACKGROUND
In the immuno-competent adult Ebstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection is a self-limiting disease that resolves spontaneously.


METHODS
We report a case of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) complicating severe EBV pneumonia and requiring prolonged artificial ventilation. The diagnosis was confirmed by specific serology and estimation of the viral load by PCR. Apart from supportive treatment with artificial ventilation the medical treatment included the use of Acyclovir and polyclonal immunoglobulins in the early phase and corticosteroids in the late phase. Recovery was progressive and complete.


CONCLUSIONS
ARDS can complicate EBV pneumonia in an immuno-competent subject. Its management represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.
Riachy
M
M
Service de Pneumologie et de Réanimation Médicale, Hôtel Dieu de France, Beyrouth, Liban. riachy@dm.net.lb
Baaklini
C
C
Ibrahim
I
I
Azar
H
H
Yaghi
C
C
Dabar
G
G
Bazarbachi
T
T
Nasnas
R
R
Karam-Sarkis
D
D
Germanos
M
M
Maacaron
N
N
Khayat
G
G
Choucair
J
J
D000212:Acyclovir / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000328:Adult; D000998:Antiviral Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020031:Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D004854:Herpesvirus 4, Human / Q000302:isolation & purification; D006801:Humans; D007116:Immunization, Passive; D011024:Pneumonia, Viral / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012121:Respiration, Artificial; D012128:Respiratory Distress Syndrome / Q000821:virology*; D019562:Viral Load
D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000998:Antiviral Agents; D000212:Acyclovir