Epstein-Barr virus-associated gastric carcinoma (EBVaGC) is a unique subtype of gastric carcinoma (GC) that accounts for roughly 9% of all cases globally. This research aimed to compare EBV prevalence in tissue and blood samples from GC-confirmed individuals to a control group.

The research comprised 50 GC patients and matched non-GC controls. Blood and tissue biopsy samples were taken and sent to the lab. Real-time PCR was used to identify EBV DNA, and other data was gathered, including demographic and lifestyle factors for both groups and information on the type, grade, stage, and metastasis in the case group. The data were statistically examined using the proper tools and tests.

EBV was found in 14% of GC patients and 4% of controls. Two of the seven EBV-positive GC patients had the virus found only in their blood samples. Analysis of demographics and lifestyle factors found no significant differences between EBV-positive and EBV-negative groups; however, EBVaGC was more prevalent in males over 50 with lower educational attainment. All EBVaGC patients had adenocarcinomas, with a greater incidence of early-stage (p = 0.015) and lower-grade tumors (P<0.0001) than EBV-negative GC.

While the data indicate a distinct clinical picture for EBVaGC, further research with larger cohorts and EBV load tests is required to understand EBV's function in GC and the implication of new methods, including blood samples for early diagnosis and treatment approaches.