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[A new virus: the human herpesvirus 6]
La Revue Du Praticien
|April 1, 1994
Summary
Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), discovered in 1986, infects T lymphocytes and epithelial cells. This ubiquitous virus causes infant exanthem subitum and is linked to opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
Context:
- Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a ubiquitous virus discovered in 1986.
- Genetically related to cytomegalovirus, HHV-6 primarily infects T lymphocytes but exhibits broader tropism, potentially including epithelial cells.
Purpose:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6).
- To detail the characteristics, clinical manifestations, and controversial associations of HHV-6.
Summary:
- Two variants, HHV-6A and HHV-6B, are distinguished by genetic and immunological analysis.
- HHV-6 infection is lifelong and common in infancy, causing exanthem subitum and febrile episodes.
- It is implicated in opportunistic infections like pneumonitis and retinitis in immunocompromised individuals, with a debated role in HIV, lymphomas, and chronic fatigue syndrome.
Impact:
- HHV-6 is a significant human pathogen with diverse clinical presentations.
- Understanding HHV-6 tropism and associations is crucial for diagnosing and managing infections.
- In vitro sensitivity to ganciclovir and foscarnet offers potential therapeutic avenues.