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Mononucleosis-like illness in an infant associated with human herpesvirus 6 infection
C Kanegane1, K Katayama, S Kyoutani
1Department of Pediatrics, National Sanatorium Toyama Hospital, Japan.
Abstract:
Illnesses resembling mononucleosis, hematologically characterized by atypical lymphocytosis in the peripheral blood, are caused by other viral infections as well as by a primary Epstein-Barr virus infection. Human herpesvirus 6, a newly isolated member of the herpesvirus group, can also cause a mononucleosis-like illness. Illness associated with human herpesvirus 6 infection mostly occurs in immunocompetent adults. We observed a 3 month old infant who presented with marked atypical lymphocytosis and liver dysfunction. We examined serum samples to detect viral antibodies related to mononucleosis-like illness. Only the titers of antibody against human herpesvirus 6 were elevated. Primary human herpesvirus 6 infection cannot only cause exanthem subitum or present in an inapparent form but can also cause an illness like mononucleosis, even in an infant.
Insights
Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) can cause mononucleosis-like illness in infants, not just adults. This study identified elevated HHV-6 antibodies in an infant with atypical lymphocytosis and liver dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
Background:
- Mononucleosis-like illnesses are often caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) or other viral infections, presenting with atypical lymphocytosis.
- Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), a member of the herpesvirus family, is known to cause mononucleosis-like symptoms, typically in immunocompetent adults.
Observation:
- A 3-month-old infant presented with significant atypical lymphocytosis and impaired liver function.
- Diagnostic investigations focused on identifying viral causes of the mononucleosis-like illness.
Findings:
- Serum analysis revealed elevated antibody titers specifically against human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6).
- This finding indicates a primary HHV-6 infection as the cause of the infant's symptoms.
Implications:
- Primary HHV-6 infection can manifest as a mononucleosis-like illness in infants, expanding its known clinical spectrum.
- This highlights the importance of considering HHV-6 in the differential diagnosis of unexplained lymphocytosis and liver dysfunction in young children.
- Further research is warranted to understand the prevalence and clinical impact of HHV-6 in infant infections.