[HTLV-I and HTLV-II virus]

HTLV genomic and antigenic features, replication way as well as associated pathology are recalled herein. The epidemiologic angle and the different transmission ways are also related. HTLV infection diagnostic implements are detailed: screening and specially confirmatory tests are brought to light with the help of concrete examples interpreted according to the criteria defined by the Retrovirus Study Group of the French Blood Transfusion Society.