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[Human herpesvirus 6. General overview]
G Tîrdei1, S M Ruţă, A E Popescu
1Institut de Virologie, Stefan S. Nicolau, Bucarest, Roumanie.
Abstract:
Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV6) was first isolated in 1985 and included in the Herpesviridae family and the beta-herpes virinae subfamily, mainly due to its genomic similarities to the human cytomegalic virus (HCMV). HHV6 is largely disseminated in the population. The contamination takes place very early, most frequently before the age of three. In some very rare cases, a benign illness is produced, known since 1911 as Roseolum infantum or Exanthemum subitum. Seroepidemiological surveys showed that anti-HHV6 IgG antibodies were present in more than 60% of the adult population. By now, there are good information about in vitro cultivability of the virus, viral genome and proteins, epidemiology of the infection and etiopathogenic relation between virus and Exanthemum subitum. Relations between virus and lymphoproliferative diseases, some auto-immune diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome and some other diseases are less clear. Relation between this virus and HIV-infection is another problem requiring more research.
Insights
Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV6) is a common virus, often acquired before age three, causing mild illness like Roseolum infantum. Further research is needed on its links to other diseases.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
Context:
- Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV6) belongs to the Herpesviridae family, beta-herpesvirinae subfamily.
- Genomic similarities to human cytomegalic virus (HCMV) informed its classification.
- HHV6 infection is highly prevalent, with over 60% of adults showing IgG antibodies.
Purpose:
- To review current knowledge on HHV6.
- To highlight areas requiring further investigation regarding HHV6's role in disease.
Summary:
- HHV6 was isolated in 1985 and is widespread globally, typically infecting children under three.
- While its association with Roseolum infantum (Exanthemum subitum) is established, its role in lymphoproliferative, autoimmune, and chronic fatigue syndromes remains unclear.
- The relationship between HHV6 and HIV infection requires additional research.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of HHV6 virology and epidemiology.
- Identifies knowledge gaps concerning HHV6's involvement in various pathologies.
- Underscores the need for continued research into HHV6's broader clinical implications.