Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is strongly associated with EBV. The undifferentiated (WHO Type III) NPC shows the highest EBV association. Which EBV gene product serves as a surrogate marker for EBV latency type II (the type in NPC) and can be detected immunohistochemically?

• A EBNA-1 and EBNA-2
• B LMP-1 (Latent Membrane Protein 1) and EBERs ✓
• C VCA (Viral Capsid Antigen)
• D Early antigen (EA-D)

Explanation

NPC uses EBV latency type II, which expresses LMP-1 (Latent Membrane Protein 1), LMP-2A/2B, EBNA-1, and non-polyadenylated EBERs (EBV-encoded small RNAs). LMP-1 acts as a constitutively active CD40 mimic, driving NF-κB and oncogenesis. EBERs (detected by in situ hybridization — EBER-ISH) are the most sensitive and specific histological marker for EBV infection in NPC tissue. Serum EBV-DNA and VCA-IgA are used for population screening in endemic areas.

Reference: Dhingra Diseases of Ear, Nose and Throat, 7th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.