MS & Epstein Barr Virus Link??

I've read several articles where MS is linked to the Epstein Barr Virus.  How many, that have or haven't been diagnosed, have previously had the EBV (aka "Mono"), or have tested positive for it?   I have.  I'm not sure when I had it...was probably misdiagnosed, as I was sick so much when I was younger.  However, my 1st neuro had me tested for it, and I was positive.  I read where if you've ever had it, you will ALWAYS carry the anitibodies...which can "turn on" the T-cells at any given time, and turn against your immune system....causing autoimmune disease.  Many studies have been done relating to MS & EBV.  Apparently, there is a link between EBV & MS.  So, how many are positive for EBV??
~tj

[fibrotj]

Sorry, my computer messed up, so I didn't know that the previous one actually posted.
~tj

[doublevision1]

You might be interested in a thread from last year on this topic.

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/512176

Quix helped to clarify the difference between simply testing + for EBV and actually having had infectious mononucleosis (IM).  It appears that it is IM that is more closely linked to MS, but still unknown whether the relationship is cause or effect.  This continues to be studied.

I did have a severe case of IM when I was about 22 yrs old.  Am now 41.  Dx'ed with RRMS in 2007.  Awaiting results of labs to learn whether I actually have Devic's disease and not RRMS.  So far in my reading I have not come across any discussion on the relationship between Devic's and IM, however Devic's is quite rare and not nearly as much research has been done, as has been done on MS.

[uk2]

I had gladular fever in my twentys which is caused by the mono virus suffered on and off for a yr then again when i was 23/24 minor am 33 now not had no more bouts of it but heard it hides.will check out your link

sam

[fibrotj]

Interesting link DB.  I did not know that there was a difference.  All I know is that my lab report states that I am positive for previous EBV infection, but was unable to determine how long ago.  
~tj