Zika virus disease for neurologists
Daniel E Smith1, J David Beckham1, Kenneth L Tyler1
1Neuro-Infectious Diseases Group, Department of Neurology and Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Denver, Aurora.
Purpose Of Review:
Zika virus (ZIKV) was not initially thought to be an important cause of neurologic disease, but with the recent epidemic in the Western Hemisphere, there is a growing body of evidence for possible neurologic complications. This review discusses these in addition to what is known about modes of transmission, testing for the virus, as well as future directions.
Recent Findings:
ZIKV disease has been associated with microcephaly and congenital eye disease in infants, as well as with Guillain-Barré syndrome, uveitis, myelitis, and meningoencephalitis in adults.
Summary:
Even though most infections are asymptomatic, there are important possible neurologic complications of ZIKV disease in both children and adults of which neurologists should be aware.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) can cause serious neurologic complications in both children and adults, including microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Neurologists must be aware of these potential ZIKV disease risks, even with asymptomatic infections.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) was initially underestimated as a cause of neurological disease.
- Recent epidemics have highlighted significant neurological complications associated with ZIKV infections.
Approach:
- This review synthesizes current evidence on ZIKV-related neurological disorders.
- It examines transmission routes, diagnostic methods, and future research avenues for ZIKV.
Key Points:
- ZIKV disease is linked to congenital conditions like microcephaly and eye defects in infants.
- Adults may develop Guillain-Barré syndrome, uveitis, myelitis, and meningoencephalitis following ZIKV infection.
Conclusions:
- Most ZIKV infections are asymptomatic, but severe neurological sequelae can occur.
- Awareness of potential neurological complications in pediatric and adult populations is crucial for neurologists.
