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In Vivo Imaging Systems (IVIS) Detection of a Neuro-Invasive Encephalitic Virus
Published on: December 2, 2012
West Nile virus neuroinvasive disease
Larry E Davis1, Roberta DeBiasi, Diane E Goade
1Neurology Services, New Mexico Veterans Affairs Health Care System, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
Annals of Neurology
|September 20, 2006
Summary
West Nile virus (WNV) is a leading cause of viral encephalitis in the U.S., resulting in neurological disease. Diagnosis relies on WNV-specific antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid, with ongoing trials for vaccines and therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- West Nile virus (WNV) is a significant public health concern in the United States, causing numerous cases of symptomatic infection and neurological disease annually.
- It has become the most common cause of epidemic viral encephalitis in the U.S., posing a continued threat of neurological complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical, laboratory, and diagnostic features of West Nile neuroinvasive disease (WNND).
- To discuss current diagnostic criteria and potential revisions based on recent findings regarding antibody persistence.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical presentations of WNV infection, including asymptomatic, West Nile Fever, and WNND.
- Analysis of neuroimaging findings, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, and serodiagnostic methods for WNV.
- Examination of ongoing therapeutic and vaccine development for WNV.
Main Results:
- WNND encompasses meningitis, encephalitis, and acute flaccid paralysis, with variable neuroimaging findings.
- CSF analysis typically shows pleocytosis, and diagnosis relies on WNV-specific IgM antibodies in CSF.
- Persistent WNV IgM antibody responses may necessitate adjustments to current diagnostic criteria.
Conclusions:
- WNND is a significant neurological disease in the U.S., with diagnosis primarily based on CSF IgM antibodies.
- Ongoing research is exploring new vaccines and antiviral therapies.
- Neurological recovery from WNV infection can be prolonged and incomplete, highlighting the need for continued research and patient support.
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