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Hepatitis A-virus particles in stools of patients from a natural hepatitis outbreak in Germany
Abstract:
During a hepatitis outbreak in Southern Germany 27 nm particles were visualized by immune electron microscopy in stools of two patients. These particles were sereologically identical or similar to hepatitis A-virus particles identified in the USA. The buoyant density of these particles was 1.34 g/cm3 as shown by cesium chloride density centrifugation. The particles were first observed in small numbers in a stool obtained 11 days, and in large numbers in stools obtained 6 and 7 days before the onset of jaundice. Few particles were seen on the day of the onset of jaundice and none thereafter. In both patients a sereoconversion to hepatitis A-virus as judged by immune electron microscopy could be demonstrated.
Insights
Researchers identified 27 nm hepatitis A virus particles in patient stools during a German outbreak. These particles, similar to US-identified strains, were detected before jaundice onset, confirming viral presence.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Hepatitis A virus (HAV) is a significant cause of viral hepatitis globally.
- Understanding HAV particle characteristics and shedding patterns is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize viral particles during a hepatitis outbreak in Southern Germany.
- To compare these particles serologically and physically to known hepatitis A virus strains.
- To determine the temporal relationship between viral shedding and clinical presentation (jaundice).
Main Methods:
- Immune electron microscopy (IEM) was used to visualize viral particles in patient stool samples.
- Cesium chloride density gradient centrifugation was employed to determine particle buoyant density.
- Serological assays were performed to compare identified particles with known HAV.
Main Results:
- 27 nm particles, serologically identical or similar to HAV, were identified in stools of two patients.
- The buoyant density of these particles was determined to be 1.34 g/cm³.
- Viral particles were detected in stools 6-11 days before jaundice onset, decreasing significantly after onset.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the presence of hepatitis A virus particles in patients during a Southern German outbreak.
- The findings demonstrate a shedding pattern of HAV preceding the onset of clinical jaundice.
- Serological and physical characteristics align with previously identified hepatitis A virus strains.