Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a virus of the family Arenaviridae and is the causative agent of lymphocytic choriomeningitis, a type of meningitis. The virus, which is rodent-borne, is a significant human pathogen and is recognized as an important cause of congenital malformations in humans when infection occurs during pregnancy.

History

LCMV was first isolated in 1933 by Charles Armstrong, an American physician at the United States Public Health Service. Armstrong was investigating an epidemic of St. Louis encephalitis when he discovered the virus in the brain tissue of a deceased patient.

Transmission

LCMV is primarily transmitted by the common house mouse (Mus musculus), but can also be carried by other species of rodents. Humans can contract the virus through exposure to rodent urine, droppings, saliva, or nesting materials. Transmission can also occur when these materials are directly introduced into broken skin, the nose, the mouth, or the eyes. Person-to-person transmission is extremely rare, but can occur through organ transplantation or from an infected mother to her fetus during pregnancy.

Symptoms and Treatment

In humans, LCMV infection can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild flu-like symptoms to severe neurological disease. In severe cases, symptoms may include meningitis, encephalitis, or meningoencephalitis. Treatment is primarily supportive, as there is currently no specific antiviral therapy for LCMV infection.

Prevention

Prevention of LCMV infection primarily involves rodent control in and around the home. This includes sealing up rodent entry holes or gaps, trapping, safe cleanup of rodent droppings and nesting materials, and not feeding or handling rodents.