HHV-7
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Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a member of the Herpesviridae family, specifically classified under the genus Roseolovirus. It is a double-stranded DNA virus that is known to infect humans, typically during early childhood. HHV-6 is divided into two distinct species: HHV-6A and HHV-6B, with HHV-6B being more commonly associated with clinical disease.
Virology[edit | edit source]
HHV-6 is an enveloped virus with a linear double-stranded DNA genome. The genome is approximately 160-170 kilobases in length and encodes over 100 proteins. The virus has a characteristic icosahedral capsid surrounded by a lipid envelope derived from the host cell membrane.
Replication Cycle[edit | edit source]
The replication cycle of HHV-6 begins with the attachment of the virus to the host cell surface receptors, followed by entry into the cell through membrane fusion. Once inside, the viral DNA is transported to the nucleus where it is transcribed and replicated using the host cell's machinery. New virions are assembled in the nucleus and acquire their envelope as they bud through the nuclear membrane.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
HHV-6 is ubiquitous, with seroprevalence rates exceeding 90% in the adult population worldwide. Primary infection typically occurs in children between 6 months and 2 years of age. The virus is transmitted primarily through saliva, although other routes such as congenital transmission have been documented.
Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]
HHV-6 is best known for causing roseola infantum, also known as sixth disease, characterized by a high fever followed by a rash as the fever subsides. In immunocompromised individuals, such as transplant recipients, HHV-6 can cause more severe complications, including encephalitis, pneumonitis, and bone marrow suppression.
Reactivation[edit | edit source]
Like other herpesviruses, HHV-6 can establish latency in the host and reactivate under certain conditions, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Reactivation can lead to symptomatic disease or contribute to other conditions such as multiple sclerosis.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of HHV-6 infection can be challenging due to its ubiquitous nature and the presence of latent virus in many individuals. Laboratory methods include serology, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for viral DNA, and culture techniques.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is no specific antiviral treatment approved for HHV-6 infection. Management is primarily supportive, although antiviral agents such as ganciclovir and foscarnet have been used in severe cases, particularly in immunocompromised patients.
Research[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the role of HHV-6 in various diseases, its mechanisms of latency and reactivation, and the development of effective treatments and vaccines.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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| Herpesviridae | |
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| Herpesviridae virion | |
| Taxonomy | |
| Kingdom | Virus |
| Order | Herpesvirales |
| Family | Herpesviridae |
| Genera | |
| Notable Species | |
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| Related Topics | |
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
