Varicella zoster virus and multiple sclerosis in a Hutterite population

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Virology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) and varicella share similar geographical distributions and incidence patterns.
• Environmental factors are implicated in MS, with onset often occurring years after initial exposure, possibly before age 15.
• Varicella, caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), is highly prevalent in childhood in high-risk MS regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential etiological role of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS).
• To explore the relationship between VZV infection, its latency, and the natural history of MS.
• To compare the incidence of MS, varicella, and herpes zoster in a specific population (Hutterite Brethren) versus controls.

Main Methods:

• A population-based study analyzing medical records of 5601 Hutterite Brethren and matched controls.
• Comparative analysis of the occurrence of multiple sclerosis, varicella, and herpes zoster between the Hutterite and control groups.
• Assessment of other neurological and autoimmune diseases within the study population.

Main Results:

• Incidence of multiple sclerosis, varicella, and herpes zoster was significantly lower among Hutterite Brethren compared to their non-Hutterite neighbors.
• The study identified a potential association between MS and VZV that warrants further investigation.
• Findings suggest VZV's latency and reactivation patterns align with MS disease progression.

Conclusions:

• The varicella zoster virus (VZV) is a potential candidate for the environmental trigger of multiple sclerosis (MS).
• The observed lower incidence of VZV-related conditions and MS in the Hutterite population suggests a possible protective factor or distinct environmental influence.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the specific mechanisms linking VZV to MS pathogenesis.