HTLV-1 associated myelopathy
HTLV-1 associated myelopathy (HAM), also known as tropical spastic paraparesis (TSP), is a rare neurological disease caused by the HTLV-1 virus. The disease is characterized by slowly progressive weakness and spasticity of the lower extremities.
Etiology[edit | edit source]
HAM/TSP is caused by the HTLV-1 virus, a retrovirus that infects T-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. The virus is transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusion, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
Patients with HAM/TSP typically present with slowly progressive weakness, spasticity, and hyperreflexia of the lower extremities. Other symptoms may include urinary incontinence, constipation, and erectile dysfunction in men.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
The diagnosis of HAM/TSP is based on clinical symptoms, serological testing for HTLV-1 antibodies, and exclusion of other causes of myelopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the spinal cord may show atrophy or signal changes in the thoracic spinal cord.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is currently no cure for HAM/TSP. Treatment is symptomatic and may include physical therapy, antispasmodic medications, and pain management.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
HAM/TSP is most common in areas where HTLV-1 is endemic, such as the Caribbean, South America, Africa, and parts of Japan.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
HTLV-1 associated myelopathy Resources | ||
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