A male patient presents with a history of persistent fatigue and swelling of the neck glands, which he has experienced for several years. Additionally, he has been managing psoriasis and reports complaints of tired eyes and the presence of eye floaters. These symptoms have manifested following an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. Notably, his father has been diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa.
Retinitis pigmentosa (the father's condition) is an ocular condition, potentially associated with methylation irregularities which can easily stem from a MTHFR polymorphism. Given its genetic nature, it's plausible that this polymorphism has been inherited from the patient's father and may be the underlying factor contributing to his psoriasis. It is conceivable that an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection has either depleted zinc reserves or prompted the body to conserve zinc supplies as a defense mechanism against further EBV proliferation. The deficiency of zinc can readily lead to the development of eye floaters and exacerbate psoriasis.
As part of the therapeutic approach, lactoferrin could be considered as a means to combat EBV. Additionally, it is advisable to assess and rectify vitamin D levels, ensuring that once the virus is suppressed, a balanced TH1/TH2 immune response can be reinstated. Potential methylation issues can be addressed through stress management, reducing exposure to external toxins, and supplementing with SAM-e or active folate as needed.