Cancer Archives - Lyme Time

Is there a link between Epstein-Barr virus and cancer? The answer to this question can be complicated. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common virus from the herpesvirus family. In fact, medical experts estimate that over 90% of the world’s population has come into contact with EBV. The high infection rate may be primarily due to the fact that once the virus passes into the body – through saliva or other bodily fluids – it stays there for life.

Typically, EBV won’t cause any issues. Many people with an EBV infection may not know they have it at all! In teenagers and young adults, EBV may develop into “the kissing disease” (mononucleosis), which passes with time. However, Epstein-Barr virus and cancer have also been linked. It’s important to discuss the association between these two conditions in order to be aware of the risk factors and the warning signs.

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Lyme disease, caused by the borrelia bacteria, can cause a wide variety of different health issues – even after it has been treated. The bacteria can evade detection by the immune system in many ways. It inhibits the action of the immune system, changes its own outer membrane antigens so that immune cells can’t detect it, and hides within tissues in the body. It isn’t just the immune system that can get confused by the borrelia bacteria, but antibiotics as well. Because of the way borrelia biofilm blocks antibiotics from getting inside the extracellular matrix, antibiotics can be ineffective at killing it.

Due to these sly functionalities of the Lyme disease-inducing bacteria, it can often lead to the development of further health complications. But just how serious can these complications be? Does Lyme disease increase cancer risk, for example?

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Tag: Cancer

The Link Between Epstein-Barr Virus And Cancer

Could Lyme Disease Infection Increase Your Chances Of Developing Certain Cancers?