Epstein-Barr virus and jaw tumors in North Nigeria.

Nigerian patients with tumors of the jaw were compared with controls in respect of antibodies to the viral capsid antigens of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and of total immunoglobulin levels. Immunoglobulin levels did not differ between patients and controls but increased two weeks postsurgery. Immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies to EBV were detected in a small number of patients, and mean titers of IgG antibodies to EBV were lower in the patient group, indicating a lack of association between EBV and tumor formation. An association was noted between the presence of Hepatitis B surface antigen, and depressed antibody titers to EBV in patients with tumors. Of 78 patients studied, 12% were Hepatitis B surface antigen positive.