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Puumala hantavirus: an imaging review
Olivier Lebecque1, Michaël Dupont1
1Department of Radiology, Université catholique de Louvain, CHU UCL Namur, Yvoir, Belgium.
Abstract:
Puumala virus (PUUV) is the most common hantavirus in Europe. It is known to cause nephropathia epidemica, which is considered a mild type of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome. However, it does not only involve the kidneys and is rarely accompanied by symptomatic hemorrhage. We review the imaging abnormalities caused by PUUV infection, from head to pelvis, emphasizing the broad spectrum of possible findings and bringing further support to a previously suggested denomination "Hantavirus disease" that would encompass all clinical manifestations. Although non-specific, knowledge of radiological appearances is useful to support clinically suspected PUUV infection, before confirmation by serology.
Insights
Puumala virus (PUUV) infection can affect multiple organs beyond the kidneys, causing a wide range of imaging abnormalities. Recognizing these radiological signs aids in diagnosing "Hantavirus disease" before serological confirmation.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
- Virology
Background:
- Puumala virus (PUUV) is the most prevalent hantavirus in Europe.
- It typically causes nephropathia epidemica, a mild form of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome.
- However, PUUV infection's effects extend beyond the kidneys and rarely involve symptomatic hemorrhage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and document the diverse imaging abnormalities associated with PUUV infection throughout the body.
- To support the proposed term "Hantavirus disease" encompassing all clinical and radiological manifestations.
- To highlight the utility of radiological findings in the early clinical suspicion of PUUV infection.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of imaging findings in patients with confirmed PUUV infection.
- Comprehensive analysis of radiological abnormalities from head to pelvis.
- Correlation of imaging findings with clinical manifestations.
Main Results:
- PUUV infection presents with a broad spectrum of non-specific imaging abnormalities.
- Findings can involve various organs, not limited to the renal system.
- Radiological appearances provide valuable clues for early diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- The term "Hantavirus disease" is proposed to better reflect the systemic nature of PUUV infections.
- Radiological assessment is a crucial supportive tool for diagnosing PUUV infection.
- Early recognition of imaging abnormalities can facilitate timely clinical management.
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