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Human eastern equine encephalitis. Electron microscopic study of a brain biopsy
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|August 1, 1985
Summary
This study used electron microscopy on brain biopsy tissue from an infant with Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). The findings reveal rare EEE virus particles in the extracellular space, aiding in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Virology
- Pathology
Background:
- Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) is a severe arboviral disease affecting the central nervous system.
- Diagnosis often relies on serological methods, but early confirmation can be challenging.
Observation:
- Electron microscopy was performed on brain biopsy tissue from an infant diagnosed with acute EEE.
- Rare clusters of spherical virions, approximately 55 nm with spiked envelopes, were observed.
- Virions were primarily extracellular, with some found within macrophages alongside degenerate organelles.
Findings:
- No intracytoplasmic virion development was observed.
- Tubuloreticular complexes were present in endothelial cells and macrophages.
- The study provides the first electron microscopic analysis of human EEE biopsy material.
Implications:
- Electron microscopy of brain biopsies can aid in the rapid diagnosis of acute encephalitis.
- This technique offers valuable insights into the neuropathology of EEE.
- Understanding viral distribution in tissue is crucial for pathogenesis studies.