Human T lymphotropic virus II (HTLV-II) is a type of retrovirus that infects human T lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell involved in immune response. HTLV-II belongs to the same family of viruses as the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). However, HTLV-II and HIV are distinct viruses that produce different diseases with varying characteristics.
HTLV-II is primarily transmitted through activities that involve the exchange of bodily fluids, such as blood transfusions, sexual contact, and sharing contaminated needles. In addition, vertical transmission from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth or breastfeeding can occur. Once inside the body, HTLV-II primarily targets and infects T lymphocytes, leading to alterations in their normal function.
Although HTLV-II usually does not cause severe illness or symptoms in most infected individuals, it has been associated with certain conditions. This includes an increased risk of developing rare types of T-cell lymphomas, a form of cancer affecting the immune system. HTLV-II has also been linked with myelopathy, a progressive degenerative disorder that affects the spinal cord, resulting in weakness, sensory disturbances, and impaired coordination.
Testing for HTLV-II infection involves screening blood or other bodily fluids for the presence of antibodies against the virus. Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment available for HTLV-II, and management focuses on relieving symptoms and supportive care.
In conclusion, HTLV-II is a retrovirus that primarily infects T lymphocytes and can be transmitted through various means. It is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers and myelopathy but typically does not cause severe disease in most infected individuals.
