EPSTEIN-BARR virus pneumonitis in a immunocompetent young adult

Background: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human Herpesvirus with worldwide distribution. Primary EBV infection usually occurs early in life and typically presents as infectious mononucleosis consisting of fever, pharyngitis, hepatosplenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy. Usually, the disease course is benign and most patients recover uneventfully without any consequent sequel. Method and results: We present a case of an immunologically normal young male in whom an acute EBV infection caused severe pneumonitis. He was treated empirically with Paracetamol, intravenous Ceftriaxone 1 gr/day plus Azithromycin 500 mg/day. Conclusion: EBV-associated pneumonitis is rare, and treatment is usually supportive, whether antiviral agents (such as acyclovir) or steroids would be beneficial remains to be determined.