Human bocavirus
Overview of Human bocavirus
Overview[edit | edit source]
Human bocavirus (HBoV) is a member of the Parvoviridae family, specifically classified under the genus Bocaparvovirus. It is a small, non-enveloped DNA virus that has been associated with respiratory tract infections, particularly in children. The virus was first identified in 2005 and has since been recognized as a significant pathogen in pediatric respiratory illnesses.
Virology[edit | edit source]
Human bocavirus is a single-stranded DNA virus with a genome size of approximately 5.3 kilobases. The virus is characterized by its non-enveloped icosahedral capsid. The genome encodes for three major proteins: NS1, NP1, and VP1/VP2. The NS1 protein is involved in viral replication, while NP1 is unique to bocaviruses and plays a role in the regulation of gene expression. The VP1/VP2 proteins form the capsid structure.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
HBoV is a globally distributed virus, with infections reported in various regions including North America, Europe, and Asia. It primarily affects young children, with the highest incidence observed in those under the age of two. The virus is often detected in respiratory secretions, and transmission is believed to occur via respiratory droplets.
Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]
Infections with human bocavirus can range from asymptomatic to severe respiratory illness. Common symptoms include cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, HBoV infection can lead to pneumonia and acute bronchiolitis. The virus has also been detected in cases of gastroenteritis, although its role in gastrointestinal disease is less clear.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of HBoV infection is typically achieved through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of respiratory specimens. Serological assays can also be used to detect antibodies against the virus, although these are less commonly employed in clinical practice.
Treatment and Prevention[edit | edit source]
There is currently no specific antiviral treatment for human bocavirus infections. Management is primarily supportive, focusing on alleviating symptoms and ensuring adequate oxygenation in severe cases. Preventive measures include standard infection control practices such as hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.
Research Directions[edit | edit source]
Ongoing research is focused on understanding the pathogenesis of HBoV, its role in co-infections, and the development of potential vaccines. Studies are also exploring the virus's impact on the immune system and its interactions with other respiratory pathogens.
Related pages[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD