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Chikungunya Immunopathology as It Presents in Different Organ Systems
Elizabeth M Traverse1, Erin M Millsapps1, Emma C Underwood1
1Center for Global Health and Infectious Disease Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA.
Insights
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) causes widespread inflammation affecting multiple organs, leading to long-term health issues. Understanding CHIKV
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) poses a significant global health challenge due to high morbidity and long-term patient impairment.
- CHIKV infection can impact multiple organ systems, affecting physical, social, and economic well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the immunopathology of CHIKV across different organ systems.
- To highlight the importance of CHIKV research and public health awareness.
Main Methods:
- Literature search on PubMed using terms 'chikungunya' and relevant organ systems.
- Synthesis of existing research on CHIKV's effects on various organs.
Main Results:
- CHIKV infection triggers a significant inflammatory response affecting the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, skin, and joints.
- The immune response to CHIKV is unique within each affected organ system.
- Evidence suggests severe complications, but understanding of CHIKV's organ-specific effects remains limited.
Conclusions:
- Clinicians must understand the diverse risks associated with CHIKV infection for patient care.
- Further research is crucial to elucidate the mechanisms of CHIKV-induced organ damage and inform clinical practice.
Abstract:
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is currently an urgent public health problem as high morbidity from the virus leaves populations with negative physical, social, and economic impacts. CHIKV has the potential to affect every organ of an individual, leaving patients with lifelong impairments which negatively affect their quality of life. In this review, we show the importance of CHIKV in research and public health by demonstrating the immunopathology of CHIKV as it presents in different organ systems. Papers used in this review were found on PubMed, using "chikungunya and [relevant organ system]". There is a significant inflammatory response during CHIKV infection which affects several organ systems, such as the brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, skin, and joints, and the immune response to CHIKV in each organ system is unique. Whilst there is clinical evidence to suggest that serious complications can occur, there is ultimately a lack of understanding of how CHIKV can affect different organ systems. It is important for clinicians to understand the risks to their patients.
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