HTLV III infections, also commonly known as human T-lymphotropic virus type 3 infections, refer to a viral infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that belongs to the retrovirus family. HTLV III is an older name for what is now referred to as HIV-1, which is the most common and virulent strain of HIV.
HTLV III infections occur when the virus enters the body and attacks the immune system, specifically targeting CD4 T cells, a type of white blood cell crucial for immunity. As the virus replicates within these cells, it gradually weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to various infections and diseases.
Symptoms of HTLV III infections can be variable and may include flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes. However, many infected individuals may remain asymptomatic for years, while still being able to transmit the virus to others.
HTLV III infections are typically transmitted through sexual contact, sharing contaminated needles, or from mother to baby during childbirth or breastfeeding. It is a sexually transmitted infection, but can also be transmitted through exposure to infected blood or blood products.
While HTLV III infections were initially identified as a cause for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in the 1980s, significant advancements in medical treatment have been made since then. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has been effective in slowing down the progression of the infection, managing symptoms, and improving the quality of life for affected individuals. However, currently, there is no cure for HTLV III infections.
