O conhecimento dos profissionais da Atenção Básica em Saúde sobre o Vírus T-linfotrópico Humano / The knowledge of Primary Health Care professionals about the Human T-lymphotropic virus / El conocimiento de los profesionales de la Atención Primaria de Salud sobre el virus linfotrópico T humano

Objetivo: investigar o conhecimento de profissionais de saúde presentes em unidades básicas de saúde (UBS's) sobre o HTLV e as condutas tomadas em caso de infecção. Método:pesquisa quantitativa transversal de abordagem exploratória, sendo realizada por meio de entrevista, com preenchimento de formulário via Google Forms. Realizada em julho de 2023. Resultados:estudo composto por 33 profissionais de saúde, dentre os quais 39% afirmaram desconhecer o HTLV. Essa informação é preocupante, considerando que uma unidade de saúde representa a principal porta de entrada paraos indivíduos em busca de atendimento à saúde. A maioria expressiva, representando 70%, demonstrou conhecimento sobre os meios de prevenção da doença. Porém, a vacinação não foi identificada pela maioria como um método de prevenção, destacando uma percepção menos difundida sobre o papel da vacina nesse contexto. Conclusão:é crucial divulgar pesquisas sobre o tema, criando oportunidades estratégicas para aprimorar tanto a compreensão clínica quanto a empatia no atendimento aos portadores do HTLV, contribuindo assim para a melhoria do diagnóstico, tratamento e qualidade assistencia

Objective:To investigate the knowledge of health professionals present in primary health care units (BHUs) about HTLV and the procedures taken in case of infection. Method:cross-sectional quantitative research with an exploratory approach, carried out through interviews, filling out a form via Google Forms. Carried out in July 2023. Results:study composed of 33 health professionals, of which 39% said they were unaware of HTLV. This information is worrying, considering that a health unit represents the main gateway for individuals seeking health care. The significant majority, representing 70%, demonstrated knowledge about the means of preventing the disease. However, vaccination was not identified by the majority as a prevention method, highlighting a less widespread perception about the role of the vaccine in this context. Conclusion:it is crucial to disseminate research on the topic, creating strategic opportunities to improve both clinical understanding and empathy in the care of HTLV carriers, thus contributing to the improvement of diagnosis, treatment and quality of care.

Objective:To investigate the knowledge of health professionals present in primary health care units (BHUs) about HTLV and the procedures taken in case of infection. Method:cross-sectional quantitative research with an exploratory approach, carried out through interviews, filling out a form via Google Forms. Carried out in July 2023. Results:study composed of 33 health professionals, of which 39% said they were unaware of HTLV. This information is worrying, considering that a health unit represents the main gateway for individuals seeking health care. The significant majority, representing 70%, demonstrated knowledge about the means of preventing the disease. However, vaccination was not identified by the majority as a prevention method, highlighting a less widespread perception about the role of the vaccine in this context. Conclusion:it is crucial to disseminate research on the topic, creating strategic opportunities to improve both clinical understanding and empathy in the care of HTLV carriers, thus contributing to the improvement of diagnosis, treatment and quality of care.

Mielopatia ou paraparesia espástica tropical (HAM/TSP) e os domínios da SF-36 / Tropical spastic myelopathy/ paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and the SF-36 domains

Introdução: a paraparesia espástica tropical ou mielopatia associada ao HTLV (HAM/TSP) é umadoença infecciosa e inflamatória crônica, que pode interferir em vários aspectos da vida do indivíduo e, com isso, alterar sua qualidade de vida (QV). Objetivo: avaliar os domínios da escala SF-36 que mais contribuem para as alterações na qualidade de vida dos pacientes com HAM/TSP. Metodologia: nesse estudo observacional, transversal e quantitativo, realizado com 49 pacientes diagnosticados com HAM/TSP do setor de Neurociências do Ambulatório Professor Francisco Magalhães Neto, na cidade de Salvador, Bahia, Brasil, a qualidade de vida foi avaliada pelo questionário de saúde Short Form-36 (SF-36), no período de fevereiro de 2019 a julho de 2020, e de fevereiro de 2022 a abril de 2022. Os dados obtidos foram avaliados por análise estatística descritiva e testes de correlação de Pearson e Spearman. Resultados: foi observado que os menores escores do questionário SF-36, indicando pior qualidade de vida, foram relativos aos domínios vinculados às limitações físicas, capacidades funcionais e limitações emocionais, nessa ordem. Os melhores domínios, indicando melhor qualidade de vida, nessa população, foram saúde mental e aspectos sociais, demostrando que os pacientes com HAM/TSP relatam alterações físicas e emocionais em sua qualidade de vida. Conclusão:os domínios que mais alteraram a qualidade de vida dos pacientes com HAM/ TSP foram AF, CF e AE. Assim, utilizando-se da escala SF-36, profissionais de saúde podem identificar e intervir precocemente em domínios que comprometam a saúde física e emocional dos pacientes com HAM/TSP, alterando, consequentemente, sua qualidade de vida.

Introduction: tropical Spastic Paraparesis or HTLV-associated Myelopathy (HAM/TSP) is a chronic infectious and inflammatory disease that can interfere with various aspects of individuals life and, thereby alter their Quality of Life (QoL). Objective: to evaluate the domains of the sf-36 scale that most contribute to changes in the quality of life of patients with HAM/TSP. Methods: in this observational, cross-sectional and quantitative study carried out with 49 patients diagnosed with HAM/TSP from the Neuroscience sector of the Professor Francisco Magalhães Neto Ambulatory, in the city of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil, quality of life was assessed using the Short Form Health Questionnaire Form ­ 36 (SF-36), from February/19 to July/20 and from February/22 to April/22. Data obtained were evaluated by descriptive statistical analysis and Pearson and Spearman correlation tests. Results: it was observed that the lowest scores on the SF-36 questionnaire, indicating worse quality of life, were related to the domains linked to physical limitations, functional capacities and emotional limitations, in that order. The best domains, indicating better quality of life in this population, were mental health and social aspects, showing that patients with HAM/TSP report physical and emotional changes in their quality of life. Conclusion: the domains that most changed the quality of life of patients with HAM/TSP were PA, FC and EA. Thus using the SF-36 scale, health professionals can identify and intervene early in areas that compromise the physical and emotional health of patients with HAM/TSP, consequently altering their quality of life.

Características clínicas y pronóstico de los pacientes con linfoma leucemia de células t del adulto / Clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with adult T-cell leukemia lymphoma

Introducción: El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar las características clínicas y pronóstico de los pacientes con Leucemia/Linfoma de Células T del Adulto (ATL) en el Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Neoplásicas (INEN) de Perú. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal, que incluyó por Se revisaron 188 historias clínicas y estudio patológico de pacientes con infección por HTLV-1 diagnosticados en el INEN durante 10 años, de quienes 150 tuvieron ATL. Resultados: 62% de los pacientes tuvieron el subtipo ATL linfoma, 37% subtipo agudo y 1% crónico. La mediana de edad fue 53 años (20-89); 51% fueron mujeres. Dentro de las características clínicas: ECOG ≥ 2 (56%); estadio clínico III-IV (80%), síntomas B (58%); incremento de la deshidrogenasa láctica, LDH, (74%); leucocitosis (50%); hipercalcemia (46%) y anemia (36%). 122 pacientes (81,3%) recibieron tratamiento, 79% con quimioterapia (QT) y 4,6% radioterapia complementaria (RT); CHOP fue el esquema de QT más frecuente (89%). De los pacientes con QT tuvieron 18% RC, 32% RP, 7% EE y 13% PE. Conclusión: En este reporte en pacientes con ATL, la forma linfoma es el subtipo más frecuente, existe alta prevalencia de inmunofenotipo atípico y pobre respuesta al CHOP.

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine the clinical characteristics and progno-sis of patients with adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) at the National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases (INEN) of Peru. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was carried out, which included 188 clinical histories and a pathological study of patients diagnosed with HTLV-1 infection diagnosed at the INEN for ten years, of whom 150 had ATL. Results: Sixty-two percent of the patients had the ATL lymphoma subtype, 37% had the acute sub-type, and 1% had the chronic subtype. The median age was 53 (20-89); 51% were women. Within the clinical characteristics: ECOG ≥ 2 (56%); clinical stage III-IV (80%), symptoms B (58%); increased lactic dehydrogenase, LDH, (74%); leukocytosis (50%); hypercalcemia (46%) and anemia (36%). A total of 122 patients (81.3%) received treatment, 79% with chemotherapy (CT) and 4.6% with complementary radiotherapy (RT); CHOP was the most frequent QT regimen (89%). Of the patients with QT, 18% had CR, 32% PR, 7% EE, and 13% PE. Conclusion: In this report, in patients with ATL, the lymphoma form was the most frequent subtype, and there was a high prevalence of atypical immunophenotype and poor response to CHOP.

Virus linfotrópico humano de células T tipo 1 (HTLV-1) en el embarazo / Human lymphotropic virus in T-cell type 1 (HTLV-1) during pregnancy

El HTLV-1 es un retrovirus que afecta principalmente a los linfocitos T-CD4, causando enfermedades como paraparesia espástica o mielopatía, uveítis, dermatitis infecciosas, leucemia/linfoma de las células T del adulto, además de otras enfermedades. Causa una infección crónica de por vida en humanos y su transmisión ocurre a través de la lactancia materna, el contacto sexual y las transfusiones de sangre. En Chile actualmente ocupa el cuarto lugar en notificaciones entre el año 2014-2021, estimándose a nivel mundial más de 20 millones de portadores. El mayor riesgo de transmisión ocurre por lactancia mayor a seis meses y alta carga proviral y altos títulos de anticuerpos en la madre portadora. El objetivo consistió en analizar la situación de la portación del virus HTLV-1 durante el embarazo, determinando su prevalencia, vías de transmisión y complicaciones. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica sistemática de artículos publicados en bases de datos científicas referidos al virus HTLV-1. Este virus está globalmente diseminado y se presenta en forma endémica en algunas regiones del mundo con prevalencias entre muy elevadas y bajas. En Chile la seroprevalencia en promedio es de 0,124% para HTLV-1. Esta infección no cuenta con tratamiento, solo se tratan los síntomas por lo que mientras esto no cambie, solo es factible reducir la transmisión, incidencia y la morbilidad del HTLV-1 incorporando medidas de control del virus en las intervenciones de control de enfermedades y estrategias de salud pública. La forma más eficiente de transmisión del virus madre-hijo es a través de la leche materna, es necesario implementar la detección prenatal de HTLV-1, en especial en las zonas endémicas, así como también asesorar a las madres HTVL-1 positivas sobre la lactancia materna.

HTLV-1 is a retrovirus that mainly affects CD4-T lymphocytes, causing diseases such as spastic paraparesis or myelopathy, uveitis, infectious dermatitis, adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, and other diseases. It causes a lifelong chronic infection in humans and its transmission occurs through breastfeeding, sexual contact and blood transfusions. In Chile, it currently ranks fourth in notifications between the years 2014-2021, with more than 20 million carriers being estimated worldwide. The greatest risk of transmission occurs by breastfeeding for more than six months and high proviral load and high antibody titers in the carrier mother. The objective consisted of analyzing the situation of the carriage of the HTLV-1 virus during pregnancy, determining its prevalence, transmission routes and complications. A systematic bibliographic review of articles published in scientific databases referring to the HTLV-1 virus was carried out. This virus is globally disseminated and occurs endemic in some regions of the world with prevalence between very high and low. In Chile, the average seroprevalence is 0.124% for HTLV-1. There is no treatment for this infection, only the symptoms are treated, so as long as this does not change, it is only feasible to reduce the transmission, incidence, and morbidity of HTLV-1 by incorporating virus control measures into disease control interventions and strategies. of public health. The most efficient form of mother-child transmission of the virus is through breast milk, it is necessary to implement prenatal screening for HTLV-1, especially in endemic areas, as well as counsel HTLV-1 positive mothers on breastfeeding

Autoimmune manifestations in pediatric patients with human type I T - cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV-1) infection / Manifestaciones autoinmunes en pacientes pediátricos con infección por virus linfotrópico humano de células T tipo I (HTLV-1)

ABSTRACT HTLV-1 is a retrovirus that has an impact on human health due to its T-lymphocyte tropism. It occurs worldwide, but is more prevalent in tropical regions. Although most infected individuals will remain asymptomatic, the infection may manifest with complications such as uveitis, myelopathy, and leukemia, among others. The diagnosis is a chieved by the detection of anti-HTLV antibodies and a confirmatory test (Western Blot or proviral load). Although there is no specific treatment, medical treatments are aimed towards the management of secondary diseases. Three cases are described of pediatric patients diagnosed with HTLV-1 infection and associated autoimmune manifestations.

RESUMEN El virus linfotrópico humano de células T tipo I (HTLV-1) es un retrovirus que causa impacto en la salud del ser humano debido al tropismo para infectar a linfocitos T. Está distribuido mundialmente, pero es más prevalente en regiones tropicales. La mayoría de las personas afectadas permanecen asintomáticas, sin embargo, al manifestarse puede causar complicaciones como uveítis, mielopatía y leucemia, entre otras. Su diagnóstico se hace mediante la determinación de anticuerpos anti-HTLV y prueba confirmatoria (Western Blot o carga proviral). No tiene tratamiento específico, las medidas están dirigidas a la prevención y el manejo de las afecciones secundarias. Se describen tres pacientes en edad pediátrica con diagnóstico de infección por HTLV-1 y manifestaciones autoinmunes.

Results of a sample-to-cutoff ratio using Abbott Architect rHTLV-I/II assay allow to predict detection of HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 proviral DNA by real-time PCR / Resultados da razão sinal da amostra sobre o cutoff da reação no ensaio Abbott Architect rHTLV-I/II permite prever a detecção de DNA proviral por PCR em tempo real

The present study aims to correlate the sample-to-cutoff ratios (S/CO) distributions of reactive results for HTLV-1/2 antibodies with the detection of proviral DNA in a population of blood donor candidates. It was carried out a retrospective data search of 632 HTLV-1/2 reactive samples, submitted to confirmatory testing from January 2015 to December 2019. Serological screening was performed by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay Architect rHTLV-I/II, whereas confirmatory testing was performed by in-house real-time polymerase chain reaction method. 496 out of 632 samples (78%) had undetectable HTLV-1/2 proviral DNA and 136 (22%) had detectable proviral DNA. HTLV infection was not confirmed in any individual for whom the S/CO ratio value was <4, and proviral DNA detection rates gradually escalated as S/CO ratio values increased. The sensitivity and predictive positive value found for the Architect rHTLV-I/II was 100% and 22%, respectively. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that the optimal S/CO ratio value for predicting the presence of HTLV-1/2 was 18.11. High S/CO ratios were more associated with the detection of proviral DNA. The S/CO ratio value <4 suggests excluding true HTLV infection and the risk of blood transmission (AU).

O estudo tem como objetivo correlacionar às distribuições das razões sample-to-cutoff (S/CO) de resultados reagentes para anticorpos HTLV-1/2 com a detecção de DNA proviral em uma população de candidatos à doação de sangue. Realizou-se uma busca retrospectiva de dados de 632 amostras reagentes para HTLV-1/2 submetidas à testagem confirmatória entre janeiro de 2015 a dezembro de 2019. A triagem sorológica foi realizada pelo imunoensaio quimioluminescente de micropartículas Architect rHTLV-I/II, enquanto o teste confirmatório foi realizado pelo método de PCR em tempo real in-house. 496 de 632 amostras (78%) apresentaram DNA proviral indetectável e 136 (22%) apresentaram DNA proviral detectável. A infecção por HTLV não foi confirmada em nenhum indivíduo com valor de S/CO <4 e as taxas de detecção de DNA proviral escalonaram gradualmente à medida que as razões S/CO aumentaram. A sensibilidade e valor preditivo positivo encontrados para o Architect rHTLV-I/II foram 100% e 22%, respectivamente. Utilizando análise de curva ROC, o valor de razão S/CO ideal para predizer a presença de DNA proviral foi de 18,11. Razões S/CO elevadas foram mais associadas à detecção de DNA proviral. Em suma, o valor de S/CO <4 sugere a exclusão de infecção por HTLV e o risco de transmissão pelo sangue (AU).

Evaluation of Strongyloides stercoralis infection in patients with HTLV-1 / Evaluación de la infestación por Strongyloides stercoralis en pacientes con HTLV-1

Introduction: Individuals infected with the human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) may present severe and disseminated forms of Strongyloides stercoralis infection with low therapeutic response. Objective: To investigate the S. stercoralis infection and the seroprevalence of IgG anti-S. stercoralis antibodies in individuals infected with HTLV-1 attending the Reference Center for HTLV-1 (CHTLV) in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Materials and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study in 178 HTLV-1-infected individuals treated at the HTLV specialized center between January, 2014, and December, 2018. The parasitological diagnosis of S. stercoralis was performed using the Hoffman, Pons and Janer, agar plate culture, and Baermann-Morais methods. The IgG anti-S. stercoralis detection was performed using an in house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The HTLV-1 infection was diagnosed using a commercial ELISA and confirmed by Western blot. Results: The frequency of S. stercoralis infection was 3.4% (6/178). Individuals infected with S . stercoralis from rural areas (50.0%; 3/6) also showed S. stercoralis hyperinfection (>3,000 larvae/gram of feces). The frequency of circulating anti-S. stercoralis IgG antibodies was 20.8% (37/178). Conclusions: HTLV-1-infected people living in precarious sanitary conditions are more prone to develop severe forms of S. stercoralis infection. Considering the high susceptibility and unfavorable outcome of the infection in these individuals, the serological diagnosis for S. stercoralis should be considered when providing treatment.

Introducción. Los individuos infectados por el virus linfotrópico T humano tipo 1 (HTLV-1) pueden presentar formas graves y diseminadas de infestación por Strongyloides stercoralis con poca mejoría terapéutica. Objetivo. Investigar la infestación por S. stercoralis y la seroprevalencia de IgG anti-S. stercoralis en individuos infectados por HTLV-1 atendidos en el Centro de Referencia para HTLV-1 (CHTLV), en Salvador, Bahía, Brasil. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio transversal con 178 individuos infectados por HTLV-1 atendidos en el centro especializado de HTLV entre enero de 2014 y diciembre de 2018. El diagnóstico parasitológico de S. stercoralis se hizo mediante los métodos de Hoffman, Pons y Janer, cultivo en placa de agar y Baermann-Morais. Para la detección de IgG anti-S. stercoralis, se utilizó una prueba casera de inmunoabsorción ligada a enzimas (ELISA). La infección por HTLV-1 se diagnosticó usando un ELISA comercial y se confirmó mediante Western blot. Resultados. La frecuencia de infestación por S. stercoralis fue del 3,4 % (6/178). Además, los individuos infestados por S. stercoralis provenientes de la zona rural (50,0 %; 3/6) también mostraron hiperinfestación por S. stercoralis (>3.000 larvas/gramo de heces). La frecuencia de anticuerpos IgG anti-S. stercoralis fue del 20,8 % (37/178). Conclusiones. Las personas infectadas por HTLV-1 que viven en condiciones sanitarias precarias son más propensas a desarrollar formas graves de infestación por S. stercoralis. Teniendo en cuenta la gran vulnerabilidad y el resultado desfavorable de la infección en estos individuos, se debe considerar el diagnóstico serológico de S. stercoralis para administrar el tratamiento

Movimentos sociais e políticas públicas - atuação da ONG HTLVida / Social movements and public policies - action of the NGO HTLVida

Resumo Na história contemporânea, diversas formas de organização da sociedade civil têm se destacado na luta por ampliação de direitos. As Organizações Não Governamentais são instituições que se dedicam a reivindicar ampliação de direitos para o grupo pela qual foram criadas. Neste artigo apresentamos a participação da ONG HTLVida no processo de introdução do tema HTLV na agenda governamental na Bahia e militância por ampliação de direitos para esse público. O HTLV é um retrovírus que afeta os linfócitos T e pode causar doenças neurológicas, hematológicas, dentre outras. O Brasil é considerado o país com o maior número absoluto de casos e Bahia é um dos estados com maior prevalência da infecção. Constatamos que vários fatores contribuíram para inclusão do tema na agenda da Bahia e consequente implementação de direitos, dentre esses, a forte militância de indivíduos infectados pelo vírus no grupo HTLVida. Quanto às conquistas, destacamos a estruturação do ambulatório municipal, a criação do Dia Municipal de Enfrentamento do HTLV e a inclusão do tema nas atividades referentes às IST nas secretarias de saúde. Apesar de significativos avanços, o movimento social ainda precisa persistir na mobilização por ampliação de direitos sociais para pessoas vivendo com HTLV.

Abstract In contemporary history, several forms of civil society organizations have stood out in the struggle to expand rights. Non-governmental organizations dedicate themselves to extending the rights of the group for which they were created. This study shows the work of the HTLVida to NGO introduce HTLV to the governmental agenda of Bahia State, Brazil, and to extend rights for this population. HTLV is a retrovirus affecting T lymphocytes which can cause neurological and hematological diseases, among others. Brazil has the highest absolute number of cases and Bahia is one of the states with the highest infection prevalence. We found that several factors contributed to including the topic in the Bahia government agenda and the subsequent implementation of rights; among these, the strong militancy of individuals infected with the virus in the HTLVida group. Regarding their achievements, we highlight the structuring of a municipal outpatient clinic, the creation of the Municipal Day to Confront HTLV, and its inclusion in activities related to STIs in health departments. Despite significant advances, this social movement still needs to persist to mobilize the expansion of social rights for people living with HTLV.

Silencioso e negligenciado: o que se sabe após quatro décadas do descobrimento do HTLV-1? / Silent and neglected: what is known after four decades of the discovery of the HTLV-1? / Silencioso y descuidado: ¿qué se sabe después de cuatro décadas del descubrimiento del HTLV-1?

O vírus linfotrópico T humano tipo 1 (HTLV-1) foi o primeiro retrovírus humano descoberto, descrito pela primeira vez há 41 anos. Esse retrovírus está associado ao desenvolvimento de duas doenças graves: a leucemia/linfoma de células T do adulto (ATLL) e a mielopatia associada ao HTLV-1/paraparesia espástica tropical (HAM/TSP). Este trabalho teve como objetivo analisar as atualizações sobre o HTLV-1, destacando os aspectos clínicos, os avanços e as limitações no tratamento e na prevenção da infecção pelo HTLV-1. Para isso, foi realizada uma revisão integrativa, por meio de coleta de dados nas plataformas PubMed, LILACS e SciELO, entre março e abril de 2021. Foram incluídos 61 artigos de diferentes países. O Brasil foi o país com maior número de publicações na área: 12. Os resultados obtidos mostram que existem avanços importantes no que diz respeito ao tratamento e à prevenção da infecção pelo HTLV-1. No entanto, a falta de estudos específicos sobre o vírus, que abordem os aspectos clínicos da infecção, foi um fator limitante para este estudo, o que reforça a necessidade de investimento em novas pesquisas sobre o tema.

The Human T-lymphotropic Virus 1 (HTLV-1) was the first human retrovirus discovered, described for the first time 41 years ago. This retrovirus is associated with the development of two serious diseases: adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) and tropical spastic paraparesis/HTLV-1-associated myelopathy (HAM/TSP). This study aimed to analyze the updates about HTLV-1, highlighting the clinical aspects, advances, and limitations in the treatment and prevention of HTVL-1 infection. To this end, an integrative review was carried out, with data collection on PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO platforms, between March and April 2021. A total of 61 articles from different countries were included. Brazil was the country with the largest number of publications in the area: 12. The results showed effective advances regarding treating and preventing HTLV-1 infection. However, the lack of specific studies about the virus, which address the clinical aspects of the infection, was a limiting factor for this study, which reinforces the need for investment in new research about this topic.

El virus linfotrópico T tipo 1 humano (HTLV-1) fue el primer retrovirus humano descubierto y se describió por primera vez hace 41 años. Este retrovirus está asociado con el desarrollo de dos enfermedades graves: leucemia/linfoma de células T del adulto (ATLL) e mielopatía asociada a HTLV-1/paraparesia espástica tropical (HAM/TSP). Este estudio tuvo como objetivo analizar las actualizaciones sobre HTLV-1, destacando los aspectos clínicos, los avances y limitaciones en el tratamiento y prevención de la infección por HTLV-1. Para ello, se realizó una revisión integradora, a través de la recolección de datos en las plataformas PubMed, LILACS y SciELO entre marzo y abril de 2021. Se incluyeron 61 artículos de diferentes países. Brasil fue el país con mayor número de publicaciones en el área: 12. Los resultados obtenidos muestran que existen avances efectivos en cuanto al tratamiento y prevención de la infección por HTLV-1. Sin embargo, la falta de estudios específicos sobre el virus que aborden los aspectos clínicos de la infección fue un factor limitante para el presente estudio, lo que refuerza la necesidad de invertir en nuevas investigaciones sobre este virus.

Hiperinfección por Strongyloides stercoralis en un paciente joven con infección por HTLV-1 y colitis ulcerativa / Strongyloides stercolaris hyperinfection in a young patient with HTLV-1 infection and ulcerative colitis

Resumen La estrongiloidiasis es una infección causada por el parásito Strongyloides stercoralis (SS) y se asocia con una alta mortalidad en pacientes inmunosuprimidos debido a una diseminación larvaria y síndrome de hiperinfección. El compromiso de la mucosa gástrica es raro, pero cuando se presenta se caracteriza por sangrado digestivo y emesis persistente. A continuación, se presenta el caso de un paciente de 27 años con síntomas gastrointestinales, antecedente de infección por el virus linfotrópico humano de células T tipo 1 (HTLV-1) y colitis ulcerativa, quien desarrolló síndrome de hiperinfección por SS. Se describe la presentación clínica, diagnóstico, tratamiento y complicaciones derivadas del cuadro infeccioso.

Abstract Strongyloidiasis is an infection caused by the parasite Strongyloides stercolaris (SS) and is associated with high mortality in immunosuppressed patients due to larval spread and hyperinfection syndrome. Gastric mucosal involvement is rare, but when it occurs, it is characterized by digestive bleeding and persistent emesis. The following is the case of a 27-year-old patient with gastrointestinal symptoms, a history of HTLV-1 infection and ulcerative colitis, who developed hyperinfection syndrome with SS. The clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and complications arising from the infectious disease are described.

Clinical profile of human T-lymphotropic virus type I: a forgotten infection in pediatrics / Perfil clínico del virus linfotrópico humano tipo I: una infección olvidada en pediatría

Summary The Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), a retrovirus with oncogenic properties, affects around ten to twenty million people worldwide. The most common disorders associated with HTLV-1 infection are T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ALT) and HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). Studies have reported other clinical manifestations in HTLV-1 seropositive patients, including inflammatory disorders, co-infections with opportunistic agents, and pulmonary diseases. Objective: Here, we aim to describe a cohort of juvenile patients with confirmed HTLV-1 infection that showed clinical manifestations other than neurological symptoms. Methodology and patients: Retrospective analysis of clinical data describing background and clinical findings of 12 juvenile patients with confirmed HTLV-1 infection, attended during January 2018 to February 2020 in a pediatric referral hospital in Cali, Colombia. Results: 11 out 12 patients were from Colombia´s Pacific coast, 10 suffered from significant nutritional deficiencies. Six exhibited dermatological findings, 3 compatible with infective dermatitis. None of the cases exhibited clinical or laboratory findings suggesting ALT or HAM/TPS. Eight patients had structural lung disease assessed by chest Computed Tomography (CT) scans; 4 of them tested positive for galactomannan antigen in bronchoalveolar fluid suggesting pulmonary aspergillosis, and 2 others exhibited a positive PCR testing for tuberculosis. Three patients were diagnosed with autoimmune disorders; 1 patient with Crohn´s Diseases, 1 case of autoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura, and a patient with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome (non-granulomatous uveitis). Conclusions: There is a broad range of clinical manifestations in pediatric HTLV-1 patients, and the clinician should consider structural pulmonary disease, opportunistic co-infections and autoimmune disorders in the diagnostic algorithm.

Resumen El Virus Linfotrópico de células T humanas tipo 1 (HTLV-1), retrovirus con propiedades oncogénicas, afecta alrededor de 10-20 millones de personas mundialmente. Las manifestaciónes más comúnmente asociadas a HTLV-1 incluyen leucemia/linfoma de células T (ALT) y mielopatía asociada a HTLV-1/ paraparesia espástica tropical (HAM/TSP). Estudios han reportado otras manifestaciones clínicas en pacientes positivos para HTLV-1, incluyendo enfermedades inflamatorias, coinfecciones con gérmenes oportunistas y enfermedad pulmonar. Objetivo: es describir clínicamente una cohorte de pacientes pediátricos con infección por HTLV-1 confirmada que presentan manifestaciones clínicas diferentes a síntomas neurológicos. Metogolodía y pacientes: Análisis retrospectivo de historia clínica describiendo procedencia y hallazgos clínicos en 12 pacientes con infección por HTLV-1 confirmada, atendidos durante el periodo de Enero de 2018 a Febrero de 2020 en un hospital pediátrico de referencia en Cali, Colombia. Resultados: Once de 12 pacientes procedían de la costa Pacífica Colombiana, 10 con deficiencias nutricionales significativas. Seis mostraron compromiso dermatológico, 3 compatibles con dermatitis infectiva. Ningún paciente presentó hallazgos clínicos o paraclínicos sugestivos de ALT o HAM/TPS. Ocho pacientes presentaron enfermedad pulmonar estructural evidenciada por TAC de tórax; 4 de ellos con antígeno galactomanan positivo en lavado broncoalveolar, sugiriendo aspergilosis pulmonar, y otros 2 resultaron con PCR positiva para tuberculosis. Tres pacientes presentaron enfermedades autoinmunes concomitantes: uno con Enfermedad de Crohn, uno con Púrpura Trombocitopénica Autoinmune, y un paciente con Síndrome de Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada. Conclusiones: Existe un amplio rango de manifestaciones clínicas en pacientes pediátricos con HTLV-1, considerando enfermedad pulmonar estructural, coinfecciones oportunistas y enfermedades autoinmunes dentro del algoritmo diagnóstico.

Leucemia asociada al virus linfotrópico T humano tipo 1 (HTLV-1) y transmisión intrafamiliar de la infección en Santiago del Estero / Leukemia associated to human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection and intrafamily transmission in Santiago del Estero

Resumen La leucemia/linfoma a células T del adulto (ATLL) es una enfermedad hematológica causada por el virus linfotrópico T humano tipo 1 (HTLV-1) que se desarrolla luego de 20 años de incubación, preferencialmente cuando la infección se adquiere por transmisión vertical. Este tiempo se reduce de 3 meses a 3 años cuando la transmisión del virus es por transfusión o trasplante de órganos. La ATLL aguda es de difícil diagnóstico por ser inusual y tener una rápida progresión a la muerte. En el Noroeste argentino, donde el virus es endémico, la ATLL es más frecuente, sin embargo, también se la detecta continuamente en el resto del país. El tratamiento de elección, en primera instancia, es el uso combinado de antivirales. Presentamos un caso de ATLL aguda desarrollada en un hombre de 59 años de Santiago del Estero a partir del cual se identificó transmisión intrafamiliar de la infección por HTLV-1.

Abstract Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is an hematological disease caused by human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) that develops after 20 years of incubation preferentially when the infection is acquired by vertical transmission. In cases of transmission by transfusion or organ transplant, this time is reduced from 3 months to 3 years. Acute ATLL is difficult to diagnose because it is unusual and has a rapid progression to death. In the Argentine Northwest, where the virus is endemic, ATLL is more frequent, however it is also detected continuously in the rest of the country. The treatment of choice, in the first instance, is the combined use of antivirals. We present a case of acute ATLL developed in a 59-year-old man from Santiago del Estero from which intrafamilial transmission of HTLV-1 infection was identified.

Percepção subjetiva de esforço e recuperação da fadiga pós-sessão fisioterapêutica em pacientes com paraparesia espástica tropical / Subjective effort perception and fatigue recovery after physical therapy session in patients with tropical spastic paraparesis

Introdução: Vírus Linfotrópico de Células T Humana do Tipo-1 (HTLV-1) é um retrovírus que afeta os linfócitos T humano e desencadeia inflamação na medula, levando à paraparesia espástica tropical/mielopatia associada ao HTLV-1 (PET/MAH) com prejuízos funcionais. Tais disfunções podem influenciar nos efeitos da fisioterapia, gerando diferentes níveis de fadiga. Objetivo: Avaliar a percepção subjetiva de esforço e de recuperação de indivíduos com PET/MAH após sessão única de fisioterapia. Métodos: Incluíram-se 12 participantes sintomáticos para PET/MAH, de ambos os sexos, que foram submetidos uma vez ao protocolo fisioterapêutico. Os instrumentos avaliativos foram: Escala Modificada de Borg, Escala de Percepção Subjetiva de Recuperação (1º, 5º e 10º minuto após a sessão) e Escala de Incapacidade Neurológica do Instituto de Pesquisa Clínica Evandro Chagas ­ 2 (EIPEC). Resultados: Encontrou-se correlação moderada entre idade e taxa de percepção subjetiva de recuperação ao 1º (r = - 0,4923) e 5º (r = - 0,4913) minuto e entre índice do EIPEC-2 e taxa de percepção subjetiva de recuperação ao 1º (r = 0,3592) e 5º (r = - 0,3772) minuto. Conclusão: Indivíduos deste estudo com maior idade e grau de incapacidade neurológica têm menor percepção subjetiva de recuperação. (AU)

Introduction: Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus Type-1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus that affects human T lymphocytes and triggers inflammation in the spinal cord, leading to tropical spastic paraparesis / HTLV-1 associated myelopathy (TSP/HAM) with functional impairments. Such dysfunctions can influence the effects of physical therapy, generating different levels of fatigue. Objective: To evaluate the subjective perception of effort and recovery of individuals with TSP/HAM after a single session of physical therapy. Methods: 12 symptomatic participants for TSP/HAM, of both sexes, who were submitted once to a physiotherapeutic protocol were included. The evaluative instruments were: Modified Borg Scale, Scale of Subjective Perception of Recovery (1st, 5th and 10th minute after the session) and Scale of Neurological Disability at the Evandro Chagas Clinical Research Institute - 2 (EIPEC). Results: A moderate correlation was found between age and subjective perception rate of recovery at the 1st (r = - 0.4923) and 5th (r = - 0.4913) minute and between the EIPEC-2 index and the subjective perception rate of recovery at the 1st (r = 0.3592) and 5th (r = - 0.3772) minute. Conclusion: Individuals in this study with older age and degree of neurological disability have less subjective perception of recovery. (AU)

Prevalence of Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 and 2 among Blood Donors in Jiangsu from 2016 to 2019 / 中国实验血液学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the prevalence of human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV) type-I/II infection among voluntary blood donors in Jiangsu (Nanjing, Suzhou, Xuzhou).@*METHODS@#From 2016 to 2019, 408 262 samples of voluntary blood donors from four blood stations in Jiangsu Province (Jiangsu Province Blood Center, Nanjing Red Cross Blood Center, Suzhou Central Blood Station, and Xuzhou Central Blood Station) were screened for HTLV-I/II antibody by ELISA. The positive samples were sent to National Center for Clinical Laboratories for confirmation by RT-PCR and Western blot.@*RESULTS@#The positive rate of HTLV-I/II screened by ELISA was 0.20‰ (82/408 262), and three HTLV-I positive samples were confirmed. The prevalence of HTLV-1 infection was 0.74 per 100 000 (3/408 262). All three donors were female repeated blood donors of childbearing ages.@*CONCLUSION@#Jiangsu is a low prevalence area of HTLV, and a reasonable blood screening strategy for HTLV can further reduce the risk of transfusion-transmitted virus infection.

Possible mechanisms underlying the association between human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and hypertension in elderly Japanese population

BACKGROUND@#Human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1) activates inflammatory cascades by activating the NF-κB pathway. The minor allele of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in breast cancer suppressor BRCA1-associated protein (BRAP), which has a common etiology with HTLV-1 infection, has been reported to be positively associated with carotid atherosclerosis, but inversely associated with hypertension. Therefore, HTLV-1 infection may be inversely associated with hypertension by activating endothelial maintenance, including atherosclerosis. To clarify these associations, a cross-sectional study was conducted using 2989 Japanese individuals aged 60-99 years participating in a general health check-up.@*METHODS@#Logistic regression models were used to clarify the association between HTLV-1 and hypertension. Platelet levels stratified analyses were also performed since platelet production, which plays a crucial role in endothelium maintenance, can be stimulated by activating the NF-κB pathway.@*RESULTS@#HTLV-1 infection was found to be significantly inversely associated with hypertension, particularly in subjects with high platelet levels (≥ second tertiles of platelet levels); the fully adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were 0.75 (0.62, 0.92) for total and 0.64 (0.50, 0.82) for high platelet levels, respectively. Further analysis of the non-hypertensive subjects demonstrated that HTLV-1 infection was significantly positively associated with atherosclerosis in subjects with the highest tertile of platelet levels (2.11 [1.15, 3.86]) but not in subjects with low platelet levels (first and second tertiles of platelet level) (0.89 [0.57, 1.39]).@*CONCLUSION@#Asymptomatic HTLV-1 infection is inversely associated with hypertension, possibly by activating endothelial maintenance, including atherosclerosis progression.

Specificity of HTLV screening tests and its impact on health care program costs: The perspective of antenatal screening in Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Brazil ranks first in the number of HTLV-1/-2-infected individuals worldwide. The high morbidity and mortality of HTLV-1-associated diseases, especially following infection in infancy, requires strong action to reduce vertical transmission. METHODS: To facilitate the appraisal of the implementation of the HTLV antenatal screening program by the Brazilian Ministry of Health, we determined the costs in distinct scenarios according to HTLV seroprevalence, specificity of the screening test, and type of confirmatory test. RESULTS: HTLV antenatal screening would cost R$ 55,777,012-R$ 77,082,123/year. Screening assays with high specificity reduce the need and cost of confirmatory assays by up to 25%. CONCLUSIONS: Careful selection of the screening assay is required to optimize the program.

Comparison of functioning and health-related quality of life among patients with HTLV-1, HIV, and HIV-HTLV-1-coinfection

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and human T-cell leukemia virus-1 (HTLV-1) viruses are associated with a high global burden of disease, and coinfection is a frequently reported event. We aimed to compare the functioning and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of patients infected with HTLV-1, HIV, and HIV-HTLV-1. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional study of patients older than 18 years who had an HTLV-1 infection (Group A), HIV infection (Group B), or HIV-HTLV-1 coinfection (Group C). The functioning profiles were evaluated using handgrip strength, Berg balance scale (BBS), timed "up and go" (TUG) test, and 5-m walk test (m/s). We used the World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS 2.0) questionnaire to measure disability. The HRQoL was evaluated using a 36-item short-form health survey. For data with parametric and non-parametric distribution, we used analysis of variance with Bonferroni correction and the Kruskal-Wallis test, followed by Dunn's pairwise tests with Bonferroni correction. RESULTS: We enrolled 68 patients in Group A, 39 in Group B, and 29 in Group C. The scores for handgrip strength, BBS, TUG test, all the WHODAS domains, and HRQoL were poorer for Groups A and C than for Group B. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to patients with HIV infection, those with HIV-HTLV-1 coinfection and HTLV-1 infection had poor functioning and HRQoL scores. HTLV-1 infection was associated with reduced functioning and HRQoL in patients with a single HTLV-1 infection and HIV-HTLV-1 coinfection.