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Human bocavirus in stool: A true pathogen or an innocent bystander?
David S Y Ong1, Rob Schuurman1, Esther Heikens1
1Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Summary
Human bocavirus (HBoV) genotypes 2-4 are commonly found in stool, but studies suggest they are not disease-causing. Their role in immunocompromised individuals remains unknown.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Human bocavirus (HBoV) is a parvovirus with four known genotypes.
- HBoV-1 primarily affects the respiratory tract, while HBoV-2, HBoV-3, and HBoV-4 are frequently detected in stool.
- HBoV-1 is a known cause of respiratory infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of HBoV genotypes 2-4 in gastrointestinal infections.
- To address knowledge gaps regarding HBoV prevalence and pathogenicity in stool samples.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on HBoV prevalence in stool.
- Comparison of HBoV detection rates in patients with and without gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Analysis of co-infection patterns with other viruses.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of HBoV (1-4) in stool is similar in patients with and without gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Other viruses are often concurrently present in stool samples.
- These findings suggest HBoV in stool may be an incidental finding, not a primary pathogen.
Conclusions:
- HBoV genotypes 2-4 are likely not significant causes of gastrointestinal illness in immunocompetent individuals.
- Further research is needed to understand the role of HBoV in immunocompromised patients.
- The pathogenic role of HBoV in stool requires further investigation.
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