Human T-cell leukemia viruses (HTLV) are a group of retroviruses that primarily infect and target human T-cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in immune system functions. These viruses are categorized within the Retroviridae family and the Orthoretrovirinae subfamily.
HTLVs are known to cause several diseases in humans, the most notable being adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL), a rare form of cancer that affects T-cells. Other diseases associated with HTLV infection include HTLV-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP), a degenerative neurological disorder, and HTLV-associated uveitis, which affects the eyes.
HTLVs are transmitted through various routes, principally sexual contact, blood transfusion, and mother-to-child transmission, primarily through breastfeeding. Although the majority of HTLV-infected individuals remain asymptomatic carriers, a small proportion will develop the associated diseases over their lifetime.
These viruses contain a single-stranded RNA genome, which is reverse transcribed into DNA once inside the host cell. The viral DNA is then integrated into the host cell's DNA, leading to the production of new viral particles and perpetuating the infection.
Prevention and control measures for HTLV include practicing safe sex, avoiding sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, and implementing strict screening protocols for donated blood and organ transplants. There is currently no specific treatment to eradicate HTLV infection, though certain therapies are available to manage associated diseases.
