HTLV

HTLV or Human T-cell lymphotropic virus is a type of retrovirus that is known to cause a type of cancer known as adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) and a variety of lymphocyte-mediated inflammatory conditions such as HTLV-I associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP).

Overview

HTLV is a member of the family Retroviridae, subfamily Oncovirinae, and genus Deltaretrovirus. There are four known types of this virus: HTLV-1, HTLV-2, HTLV-3, and HTLV-4. HTLV-1 is the most common type and is associated with various diseases.

Transmission

Transmission of HTLV can occur through sexual contact, from mother to child (primarily through breastfeeding), and through exposure to contaminated blood, such as through blood transfusion or sharing of needles.

Diseases Associated with HTLV

HTLV-1 is associated with a number of diseases including:

• Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL): A rare and aggressive type of cancer of the immune system's own T-cells.

• HTLV-I associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP): A chronic and progressive disease that affects the spinal cord and white matter of the central nervous system.

Prevention and Treatment

There is currently no cure or vaccine for HTLV. Prevention strategies focus on avoiding the routes of transmission. Treatment for diseases associated with HTLV is symptomatic and supportive.

See Also

• Retrovirus
• Cancer
• Transmission

HTLV Resources
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