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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
10:21
In Vivo Imaging Systems (IVIS) Detection of a Neuro-Invasive Encephalitic Virus
Published on: December 2, 2012
[Encephalomyelitis caused by enterovirus type 71 in children].
Voprosy Virusologii
|March 9, 2011
Summary
Enterovirus type 71 (EV71) causes hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) outbreaks. Severe cases in infants can lead to fatal neurological complications and high mortality rates.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Neurology
- Pathology
Context:
- Enterovirus type 71 (EV71) outbreaks of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) have occurred globally, particularly in Europe and Southeast Asia.
- HFMD typically affects children under 10, with most recovering within a week.
- A subset of infants aged 6 months to 3 years experience severe neurological complications.
Purpose:
- To describe the clinical and pathological features of EV71-associated HFMD.
- To highlight the neurological complications and high mortality rates in infants.
- To investigate the neuropathogenesis of fatal outcomes.
Summary:
- EV71 infection causes HFMD, with severe neurological complications like meningitis, poliomyelitis-like syndrome, and brain stem encephalitis in infants.
- Neurological damage targets the brain stem's respiratory and vasomotor centers, leading to pulmonary edema, cardiopulmonary failure, and high mortality (up to 94%).
- Pathomorphology reveals acute inflammation in the brain stem and spinal cord, with minimal lung or myocardial involvement, indicating neurogenic pulmonary edema.
Impact:
- This research underscores the severe neurotropic potential of EV71 in infants.
- Understanding the pathogenesis is crucial for developing targeted treatments and preventative strategies against EV71.
- The findings emphasize the need for heightened surveillance and preparedness for EV71 outbreaks, especially in vulnerable populations.
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