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Human immunodeficiency virus type-2-A milder, kinder virus: an update
R Kannangai1, S David, G Sridharan
1Department of Clinical Virology, Christian Medical College, Vellore - 632 055, India. rajeshkannangai@hotmail.com
Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
|February 25, 2012
Summary
Human immunodeficiency virus type-2 (HIV-2) is less pathogenic than HIV-1, with lower transmission rates. Early diagnosis of HIV-2 is crucial due to natural resistance to certain treatments.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Human immunodeficiency virus type-2 (HIV-2) is a distinct retrovirus, phylogenetically related to SIV SM.
- HIV-2 shares morphological similarities with HIV-1 but exhibits only 40% nucleotide homology.
- HIV-2 has a different geographical distribution compared to HIV-1, with eight identified subtypes/groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the pathogenicity, transmission, and clinical course of HIV-2 with HIV-1.
- To highlight the diagnostic and treatment implications of HIV-2 infection.
- To understand the distinct characteristics of HIV-2 isolates.
Main Methods:
- Clinical, hematological, and immunological evaluations of HIV-2 infected individuals.
- Comparison of disease progression, transmission rates, and viral characteristics between HIV-1 and HIV-2.
- Assessment of drug resistance patterns in HIV-2 strains.
Main Results:
- HIV-2 is generally less pathogenic and has significantly lower transmission rates (heterosexual and mother-to-child) than HIV-1.
- Clinical manifestations of HIV-2 infection are similar to HIV-1, potentially progressing to AIDS.
- HIV-2 isolates exhibit distinct replicative and cytopathic effects, and natural resistance to Non-Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs).
Conclusions:
- HIV-2 represents a less virulent yet clinically significant form of human retroviral infection.
- Accurate diagnosis of HIV-2 is essential for effective antiretroviral therapy selection due to specific resistance profiles.
- No cross-protective immunity exists between HIV-1 and HIV-2 infections.
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