Central Nervous System and Ocular Manifestations in Puumala Hantavirus Infection

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Virology
• Neurology

Background:

• Puumala hantavirus (PUUV) is transmitted by bank voles, causing nephropathia epidemica (NE), a mild hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS).
• Typical NE symptoms include fever, acute kidney injury (AKI), thrombocytopenia, and hematuria, often accompanied by neurological and visual disturbances.
• Ocular and central nervous system (CNS) involvement are recognized but less understood aspects of acute NE.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms of ocular and CNS manifestations in acute nephropathia epidemica.
• To describe the clinical presentations of neurological and visual symptoms associated with Puumala hantavirus infection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on Puumala hantavirus and nephropathia epidemica.
• Analysis of case reports and clinical data detailing ocular and CNS involvement.
• Synthesis of current understanding regarding hantavirus pathogenesis and its impact on the nervous system.

Main Results:

• PUUV infection can lead to various ocular symptoms, including blurred vision and visual disturbances.
• Central nervous system involvement in NE may present as headache, vertigo, and insomnia.
• The exact mechanisms of neurotropism and ocular pathology in PUUV infection require further elucidation.

Conclusions:

• Nephropathia epidemica involves more than just renal impairment, with significant ocular and CNS manifestations.
• Understanding these neurological and visual aspects is crucial for comprehensive patient management.
• Further research is needed to clarify the pathogenesis and clinical significance of ocular and CNS involvement in NE.