HTLV-1

HTLV-1 or Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 is a human retrovirus that is known to cause a type of cancer called adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) and a demyelinating disease called HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP).

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

HTLV-1 is endemic in certain parts of the world, including southwestern Japan, the Caribbean, South America, and parts of Central Africa. The virus is spread through sexual contact, blood transfusion, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]

The majority of individuals infected with HTLV-1 remain asymptomatic carriers. However, approximately 2-5% of infected individuals develop ATL, and a smaller percentage develop HAM/TSP. Other associated diseases include uveitis, infective dermatitis, and possibly a variety of other inflammatory diseases.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of HTLV-1 infection is made by serologic testing, with confirmation by Western blot or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The diagnosis of ATL or HAM/TSP requires additional clinical and laboratory findings.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

There is no cure for HTLV-1 infection. Treatment of ATL is with chemotherapy, and treatment of HAM/TSP is primarily symptomatic.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of HTLV-1 infection is primarily through avoidance of risk factors, such as unprotected sex and sharing of needles. In endemic areas, screening of blood donors and avoidance of breastfeeding by infected mothers can also reduce transmission.

See also:

HTLV-1 Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.