Antibody to Epstein-Barr virus-specific DNase as a marker for the early detection of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

We have previously shown that high levels of antibody to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific DNase may be a useful marker for the early diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Sera from 3,368 males in an area with a high risk for the development of NPC were examined for the presence of antibody to EBV-specific DNase activity. Significant levels of the antibody were found in 430 of these sera. As a result, 32 individuals have attended the out-patient department of otolaryngology for clinical examination. Among them, one individual was found to have a stage II nasopharyngeal carcinoma. This result supports the value of determination of antibody to EBV-specific DNase as a marker for the early detection of NPC.