Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus
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Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), also known as Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8), is a virus belonging to the Herpesviridae family. It is one of the seven known human oncogenic viruses and is the etiological agent of Kaposi's sarcoma, a type of cancer that forms in the lining of blood and lymph vessels. KSHV is also associated with other diseases, such as primary effusion lymphoma and multicentric Castleman's disease.
Virology[edit | edit source]
KSHV is a double-stranded DNA virus and is classified within the Rhadinovirus genus of the Gammaherpesvirinae subfamily. The virus has a large genome, approximately 165 kilobases in length, encoding over 80 open reading frames. Like other herpesviruses, KSHV can establish latent and lytic infections in host cells. During latency, the viral genome persists as an episome in the nucleus of infected cells, with limited gene expression. In contrast, the lytic cycle involves active viral replication and production of new virions.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
KSHV is unevenly distributed worldwide, with higher prevalence in sub-Saharan Africa, the Mediterranean, and parts of the Middle East. Transmission of KSHV can occur through saliva, sexual contact, and possibly through blood transfusions and organ transplants. The virus is more prevalent in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS.
Pathogenesis[edit | edit source]
KSHV is primarily associated with Kaposi's sarcoma, a cancer characterized by the proliferation of endothelial cells. The virus expresses several proteins that can interfere with normal cellular processes, promoting cell survival, proliferation, and angiogenesis. Key viral proteins involved in pathogenesis include the latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA), viral G protein-coupled receptor (vGPCR), and viral interleukin-6 (vIL-6).
Clinical Manifestations[edit | edit source]
Kaposi's sarcoma presents as purplish, red, or brown skin lesions, which can also occur in the mouth, lymph nodes, and internal organs. The disease can be indolent or aggressive, depending on the patient's immune status. In addition to Kaposi's sarcoma, KSHV is linked to primary effusion lymphoma, a rare type of B-cell lymphoma, and multicentric Castleman's disease, a lymphoproliferative disorder.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of KSHV infection can be achieved through serological tests that detect antibodies against viral proteins, as well as molecular techniques such as PCR to identify viral DNA in tissue samples. Histological examination of lesions can also aid in diagnosing Kaposi's sarcoma.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
There is no specific antiviral treatment for KSHV infection. Management of Kaposi's sarcoma often involves a combination of antiretroviral therapy (in HIV-positive patients), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgical excision of lesions. Immune modulation and targeted therapies are also being explored.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures include reducing exposure to known transmission routes, such as practicing safe sex and screening blood products. In HIV-positive individuals, maintaining effective antiretroviral therapy can reduce the risk of developing Kaposi's sarcoma.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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| Herpesviridae | |
|---|---|
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| Herpesviridae virion | |
| Taxonomy | |
| Kingdom | Virus |
| Order | Herpesvirales |
| Family | Herpesviridae |
| Genera | |
| Notable Species | |
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| Related Topics | |
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
