HTLV I Associated Myelopathy (HAM), also known as Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (TSP), is a chronic progressive neurological disorder caused by infection with the human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I). It is primarily characterized by the degeneration of the spinal cord's white matter, which leads to motor weakness and spasticity primarily affecting the lower limbs.
The HTLV-I virus is transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusion, and from mother to child through breastfeeding. After a prolonged incubation period, the virus can cause HTLV-I infection, which progresses to HAM/TSP in a small proportion of individuals. The exact mechanism of how the virus leads to the development of HAM/TSP is not fully understood.
The symptoms of HAM/TSP usually start gradually and worsen over time. Individuals affected by this condition may experience muscle weakness, difficulty walking, muscle stiffness (spasticity), imbalance, and urinary dysfunction. Other manifestations of HAM/TSP can include sensory disturbances, such as numbness and tingling, and lower back pain. The severity of symptoms varies among individuals, but in some cases, the disease can progress to a wheelchair-bound state.
Currently, there is no specific cure for HAM/TSP. Treatment primarily focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Physical therapy, medications to reduce spasticity, and assistive devices may be recommended to help individuals maintain mobility. Furthermore, antiviral drugs and immune modulators may be used to reduce viral replication and inflammation.
In conclusion, HTLV I Associated Myelopathy (HAM) is a chronic neurological disorder caused by HTLV-I infection, resulting in the degeneration of the spinal cord's white matter. It is characterized by motor weakness, spasticity,
