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Human herpesviruses 6 and 7.
Tami De Araujo1, Brian Berman, Andrew Weinstein
1Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
Dermatologic Clinics
|July 18, 2002
Summary
Human herpesviruses 6 and 7 (HHV-6 and HHV-7) are common viruses that can cause infections or remain latent. While HHV-6 is linked to exanthema subitum, HHV-7
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Human herpesviruses 6 and 7 (HHV-6 and HHV-7) are members of the Roseolavirus genus in the Betaherpesvirinae subfamily.
- These viruses are ubiquitous and can establish lifelong latent infections.
- Reactivation of HHV-6 and HHV-7 can occur during periods of decreased host immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the known associations between HHV-6, HHV-7, and human diseases.
- To clarify the role of these viruses in dermatological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating HHV-6 and HHV-7.
- Analysis of established and debated clinical associations.
Main Results:
- A definitive association exists between Human herpesvirus 6 and exanthema subitum (roseola infantum).
- The role of Human herpesvirus 7 in pityriasis rosea pathogenesis is still under investigation and remains debated.
Conclusions:
- HHV-6 has a proven link to exanthema subitum.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific role of HHV-7 in pityriasis rosea.