Adult T-cell leukemia-lymphoma (ATLL) is a rare and aggressive cancer of the blood that affects mature T lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). It is primarily caused by infection with the human T-cell leukemia-lymphoma virus type 1 (HTLV-1), which is a retrovirus transmitted through various means including sexual contact, breastfeeding, and blood transfusion.
HTLV-1 infects and transforms T cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the development of ATLL. This disease most commonly affects adults, particularly those from endemic regions such as certain parts of Japan, the Caribbean, and Central Africa.
ATLL usually presents with nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue, fever, night sweats, and lymphadenopathy. As the disease progresses, it can manifest as skin lesions, involvement of multiple organ systems, and an increased risk of opportunistic infections. The prognosis for ATLL is poor, with a median overall survival of less than a year in aggressive cases.
Treatment options for ATLL depend on the disease subtype, stage, and the overall health of the patient. These may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, stem cell transplantation, and symptomatic supportive care. However, complete remission is rare, and the main goal of treatment is to improve quality of life and control symptoms.
Prevention strategies for HTLV-1 infection include avoiding unprotected sexual contact, practicing safe breastfeeding, and screening blood products for HTLV-1. Additionally, education and public health campaigns play a crucial role in raising awareness about the virus and its associated risks.
