HHV-8
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Human Herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7) is a member of the Herpesviridae family, specifically classified under the Betaherpesvirinae subfamily. It is a double-stranded DNA virus that is closely related to Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) and is known to cause roseola in children, although it is less commonly associated with this condition than HHV-6.
Virology[edit | edit source]
HHV-7 is a lymphotropic virus, meaning it primarily infects lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The virus has a genome that is approximately 145 kilobases in length and encodes for a variety of proteins that facilitate its replication and evasion of the host immune system.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The virion of HHV-7 is composed of an icosahedral capsid, an envelope, and a tegument layer. The envelope is derived from the host cell membrane and contains viral glycoproteins that are essential for the virus's ability to infect host cells.
Replication Cycle[edit | edit source]
HHV-7 enters host cells by binding to specific receptors on the cell surface, followed by fusion of the viral envelope with the cell membrane. Once inside, the viral DNA is transported to the nucleus where it is transcribed and replicated. The virus assembles in the nucleus and acquires its envelope by budding through the nuclear membrane.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
HHV-7 is ubiquitous in the human population, with most individuals becoming infected during childhood. The virus is transmitted primarily through saliva and is thought to establish a lifelong latent infection in the host.
Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]
While HHV-7 is often asymptomatic, it can cause roseola (also known as exanthem subitum or sixth disease) in children, characterized by a sudden high fever followed by a rash. In immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, HHV-7 can cause more severe complications, including encephalitis and pneumonitis.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of HHV-7 infection is typically made through serological tests that detect antibodies against the virus or by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays that identify viral DNA in blood or other body fluids.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for HHV-7 infection. Management is generally supportive, focusing on alleviating symptoms. In severe cases, antiviral drugs such as ganciclovir may be used, although their efficacy against HHV-7 is not well established.
Research[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the pathogenesis of HHV-7, its role in various diseases, and the development of potential vaccines or targeted therapies.
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
