Tissue and cellular tropism, pathology and pathogenesis of Ebola and Marburg viruses

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Pathology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Ebola and Marburg viruses are highly virulent pathogens causing fatal hemorrhagic fevers with high case fatality rates.
• Diagnosing filovirus infections in formalin-fixed tissues is challenging due to overlapping histopathological findings with other hemorrhagic diseases.
• Accurate differentiation of filovirus infections is critical, especially in regions co-endemic with multiple viral hemorrhagic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of filovirus infections and their pathogenesis.
• To discuss histopathological findings, epidemiology, transmission, and host-pathogen interactions.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and the importance of distinguishing filovirus diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of filovirus infections.
• Analysis of histopathological findings in fatal cases.
• Discussion of epidemiological data and transmission routes.
• Examination of viral entry and spread mechanisms within host organisms.

Main Results:

• Filovirus pathogenesis is complex, involving the mononuclear phagocytic system, cytokine release, endothelial dysfunction, immune system alterations, and coagulopathy.
• Characteristic histopathological findings, primarily in the liver, often overlap with other hemorrhagic diseases, complicating diagnosis.
• Despite advancements, significant knowledge gaps persist regarding filovirus pathogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Filovirus infections represent a significant global health threat due to their high mortality and diagnostic complexities.
• A comprehensive understanding of filovirus pathogenesis is essential for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
• Further research is needed to address unanswered questions in filovirus biology and disease progression.