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Immunohistochemical evidence of measles virus antigens in active otosclerosis
1Department of Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
Abstract:
Despite intensive investigation, the cause of otosclerosis remains uncertain. Recent studies of Paget's disease of bone have revealed a possible viral origin. Because of similarities between otosclerosis and Paget's disease, we have pursued investigation of a possible viral cause of otosclerosis. Four temporal bone specimens from patients with otosclerosis, processed for immunohistochemistry, demonstrated positive specific reactivity with monoclonal antibodies to measles virus antigens using the indirect immunofluorescent and immunoperoxidase techniques. Reactivity was most intense in active foci. Reactivity in the peroxidase assay was also observed in areas of acting otosclerosis with application of primary antisera from patients with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a disorder of the central nervous system in which a defective measles virus has been isolated. Other related paramyxoviruses, including mumps and respiratory syncytial virus, were negative, as were negative controls.
Insights
Measles virus may play a role in otosclerosis, a hearing disorder. Immunohistochemistry revealed measles virus antigens in temporal bone specimens from patients with otosclerosis, suggesting a potential viral cause.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Virology
- Immunohistochemistry
Background:
- The etiology of otosclerosis, a common cause of hearing loss, remains largely unknown.
- Similarities between otosclerosis and Paget's disease of bone, which has a suspected viral origin, prompted this investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential viral etiology of otosclerosis.
- To examine temporal bone specimens for evidence of measles virus infection.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemistry, including indirect immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase techniques, was employed.
- Monoclonal antibodies specific to measles virus antigens were used.
- Temporal bone specimens from four otosclerosis patients were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Positive specific reactivity to measles virus antigens was observed in temporal bone specimens from otosclerosis patients.
- Reactivity was most pronounced in active disease foci.
- Reactivity was also noted with antisera from subacute sclerosing panencephalitis patients, further implicating measles virus.
Conclusions:
- These findings suggest a possible role for measles virus in the pathogenesis of otosclerosis.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the viral link and explore therapeutic implications.