HTLV-2

HTLV-2 (Human T-lymphotropic virus type 2) is a retrovirus that is known to cause a type of leukemia and lymphoma in humans. It is a member of the Retroviridae family, specifically the genus Deltaretrovirus.

Overview

HTLV-2 was first isolated in 1982 from a patient with hairy cell leukemia. It is similar to HTLV-1 in structure, but has distinct differences in its genome and pathogenesis. HTLV-2 is less pathogenic than HTLV-1, and is primarily associated with neurological disorders and pulmonary disease.

Transmission

HTLV-2 is transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusion, sharing of intravenous drug use equipment, and from mother to child during breastfeeding. The virus can be found in the blood, sperm, and milk of infected individuals.

Clinical Manifestations

Most individuals infected with HTLV-2 remain asymptomatic throughout their lives. However, some may develop neurological disorders, pulmonary disease, or other health problems. The exact mechanisms by which HTLV-2 causes disease are not fully understood.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of HTLV-2 infection is typically made through serological testing, which detects antibodies to the virus in the blood. Confirmatory testing is usually performed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or western blot techniques.

Treatment

There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for HTLV-2. Management of the infection primarily involves treating the symptoms and complications as they arise.

Prevention

Prevention of HTLV-2 infection involves avoiding behaviors that increase the risk of transmission, such as unprotected sex, sharing of intravenous drug use equipment, and breastfeeding if the mother is infected.

See Also

• HTLV-1
• Retrovirus
• Leukemia
• Lymphoma