We compared primary Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and suppression between Kenyan human immunodeficiency virus-infected infants starting nevirapine-based vs lopinavir/ritonavir-based antiretroviral regimens. Although the rate of EBV infection was similar between groups, infants receiving lopinavir/ritonavir suppressed EBV more rapidly. Our findings suggest that specific antiretrovirals may potentially impact the risk of future EBV-associated malignancies.
Keywords: Epstein-Barr virus; HIV; antiretroviral therapy; infant; primary infection.