EBER
Pronunciation: EE-ber
Also written as: EBER — Epstein–Barr Virus Encoded RNA
Epstein–Barr Virus Encoded RNA; a highly sensitive in situ hybridisation marker used to confirm EBV association in lymphoproliferative lesions of the oral and maxillofacial region.
Full Definition
EBER (Epstein–Barr Virus Encoded RNA) refers to two small non-polyadenylated RNAs (EBER-1 and EBER-2) produced abundantly by latently EBV-infected cells and detected by chromogenic in situ hybridisation (CISH) in histological sections. In the context of oral and maxillofacial pathology, EBER positivity is a key diagnostic criterion for extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma, EBV-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, and certain nasopharyngeal carcinomas. Editors must note that 'EBER' is distinct from 'EBNA' (EBV Nuclear Antigen) and 'LMP' (Latent Membrane Protein), which are different EBV markers detected by immunohistochemistry rather than ISH. The acronym should appear in capitals without periods. Full expansion is required at first use in manuscripts.
Usage
Usage note: Do not confuse with EBNA or LMP1; these are distinct EBV markers detected by different methods (IHC vs. ISH). Always expand on first use.
In Context
- "EBER in situ hybridisation demonstrated strong nuclear positivity in the atypical lymphoid infiltrate, supporting a diagnosis of EBV-associated lymphoproliferative disease." — Histopathology report
- "At first mention in a manuscript, 'EBER' should be expanded to 'Epstein–Barr Virus Encoded RNA (EBER)' per journal instructions to authors." — Manuscript preparation guideline