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Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome
R L Moolenaar1, R F Breiman, C J Peters
1State Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Seminars in Respiratory Infections
|March 1, 1997
Summary
Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a severe respiratory illness caused by Sin Nombre virus. Early recognition and intensive care are crucial for managing this condition, with prevention focused on avoiding rodent contact.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a newly identified, severe illness.
- It progresses through distinct prodromal, cardiopulmonary, and convalescent phases.
- HPS is characterized by rapid onset of respiratory insufficiency due to noncardiogenic pulmonary edema.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the medical literature on hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS).
- To cover epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and control of HPS.
- To inform healthcare professionals about this emerging disease.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of English language articles (January 1993 - March 1995).
- Included manual searches, Medline database, conference proceedings, and reference lists.
- Focused on articles detailing clinical aspects of HPS.
Main Results:
- HPS presents with nonspecific prodromal symptoms followed by severe respiratory distress.
- Unlike other hantavirus infections, renal and hemorrhagic signs are not prominent in HPS.
- Sin Nombre virus, carried by Peromyscus maniculatus, caused the 1993 Southwest US epidemic.
Conclusions:
- HPS requires intensive care, including oxygen and cardiovascular support.
- Preventive strategies emphasize avoiding contact with rodents and their excreta.
- Healthcare providers should consider HPS in patients with unexplained respiratory insufficiency and potential rodent exposure.