Mycobacterium tuberculosis y virus linfotrópico humano, una co-infección fatal / Mycobacterium tuberculosis and human lymphotropic virus, a fatal co-infection

La tuberculosis es una infección de alta incidencia en Latinoamérica. Su presentación como infección activa está determinada por factores de riesgo del hospedero. Comunicamos el caso clínico de una mujer joven que presentó una forma grave de tuberculosis pulmonar. Al explorar sus factores de riesgo se confirmó un estado de inmunosupresión profundo, causado por un linfoma de células T, asociada a una co-infección por virus linfotrópico T humano tipo 1. Se destacan los aspectos microbiológicos y de pronóstico de la co-infección de Mycobacterium tuberculosis y HTLV-1

Tuberculosis is a high-incidence infection in Latin America. Its presentation as an active infection is determined by risk factors in the host. We report the case of a young woman who presented a severe form of pulmonary tuberculosis. When exploring her risk factors, a profound state of immunosuppression was found, caused by T-cell lymphoma, associated with co-infection with human lymphotropic virus. Microbiological and prognostic aspects of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and HTLV-1 co-infection are highlighted.

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.

Preclinical assessment of an anti-HTLV-1 heterologous DNA/MVA vaccine protocol expressing a multiepitope HBZ protein.

BACKGROUND: Human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) is associated with the development of several pathologies and chronic infection in humans. The inefficiency of the available treatments and the challenge in developing a protective vaccine highlight the need to produce effective immunotherapeutic tools. The HTLV-1 basic leucine zipper (bZIP) factor (HBZ) plays an important role in the HTLV-1 persistence, conferring a survival advantage to infected cells by reducing the HTLV-1 proteins expression, allowing infected cells to evade immune surveillance, and enhancing cell proliferation leading to increased proviral load. METHODS: We have generated a recombinant Modified Virus Vaccinia Ankara (MVA-HBZ) and a plasmid DNA (pcDNA3.1(+)-HBZ) expressing a multiepitope protein based on peptides of HBZ to study the immunogenic potential of this viral-derived protein in BALB/c mice model. Mice were immunized in a prime-boost heterologous protocol and their splenocytes (T CD4+ and T CD8+) were immunophenotyped by flow cytometry and the humoral response was evaluated by ELISA using HBZ protein produced in prokaryotic vector as antigen. RESULTS: T CD4+ and T CD8+ lymphocytes cells stimulated by HBZ-peptides (HBZ42-50 and HBZ157-176) showed polyfunctional double positive responses for TNF-α/IFN-γ, and TNF-α/IL-2. Moreover, T CD8+ cells presented a tendency in the activation of effector memory cells producing granzyme B (CD44+High/CD62L-Low), and the activation of Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes (CTLs) and cytotoxic responses in immunized mice were inferred through the production of granzyme B by effector memory T cells and the expression of CD107a by CD8+ T cells. The overall data is consistent with a directive and effector recall response, which may be able to operate actively in the elimination of HTLV-1-infected cells and, consequently, in the reduction of the proviral load. Sera from immunized mice, differently from those of control animals, showed IgG-anti-HBZ production by ELISA. CONCLUSIONS: Our results highlight the potential of the HBZ multiepitope protein expressed from plasmid DNA and a poxviral vector as candidates for therapeutic vaccine.

Physiotherapy Methods Applied in the Prevention of Functional Loss Associated with Human T-Lymphotropic Virus 1 Infection: An Overview.

To achieve the objective of this study, we conducted a narrative review on physical therapeutic modalities applied to prevent functional losses associated with human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) infections to promote health education and viable and accessible alternatives in the development of health education technology adapted to the home environment. This study comprised a qualitative stage of theoretical development to construct a digital booklet with an observational basis based on studies that reiterate themes about educational technologies as tools to conduct a home protocol of guided exercises without the direct supervision of professional physical therapists. Results indicate a lack of research on the development of health education technologies to assist patients with HTLV-1 without tropical spastic paraparesis or HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). We believe that this narrative review can initiate a theoretical framework to conduct a home exercise program aimed at people with HTLV-1 who have subtle symptoms, and also at people without the clinical definition of HAM/TSP, helping to train human resources for care and research on the subject and increase scientific production in physical therapy.

COVID-19 y leucemia/linfoma T del adulto, sinergia mortal / COVID-19 and adult T cell leukemia-lymphoma: a deadly synergy

La leucemia/linfoma T del adulto es una neoplasia maligna de mal pronóstico frecuente en población anciana. Se presenta el caso de una mujer de 44 años de edad, de Ayacucho, diagnosticada con el subtipo linfomatoso de esta enfermedad e infección por virus linfotrópico T humano-I; mostró síndrome oclusivo de vena cava superior con tratamiento de quimioterapia sistémica bajo régimen de dosis ajustada con rituximab más etoposido, prednisona, vincristina, ciclofosfamida y doxorubicina. Posteriormente ingresó en emergencia por presentar dificultad respiratoria, tos seca, disminución de la conciencia, hipercalcemia, tomografía de tórax con patrón heterogéneo consolidativo en ambos pulmones y PCR en hisopado nasofaríngeo positivo a COVID-19. Recibió tratamiento de hidroxicloroquina, azitromicina, corticoides e ivermectina con pobre respuesta, rápido deterioro y fallece días después. La leucemia/linfoma T del adulto a edad temprana es rara y está relacionada con infecciones crónicas como strongyloides o tuberculosis, susceptible ante el padecimiento de COVID-19.

Adult T cell leukemia-lymphoma is a common malignancy with a poor prognosis in the elderly population. We present a 44-year-old woman from Ayacucho who was diagnosed with a lymphoma subtype of this disease and a human T-lymphotropic virus-I infection; she showed superior vena cava occlusive syndrome with systemic chemotherapy treatment under an adjusted-dose regimen with rituximab plus etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin. Subsequently, she was admitted to the emergency service due to respiratory distress, dry cough, decreased consciousness, hipercalcemia, chest tomography with a heterogeneous consolidation pattern in both lungs and positive RT-PCR nasopharyngeal swab test for COVID-19. She received treatment with hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin, corticosteroids and ivermectin with a poor response, rapid deterioration and died later. Adult T cell leukemia-lymphoma at an early age is rare and is related to chronic infections such as strongyloides or tuberculosis, susceptible to COVID-19.

Infección por virus linfotrópico de células T humanas: Síndrome de Sezary asociado a paraparesia espástica tropical apropósito de un caso / Human T-cell lymphotropic virus infection: Sezary syndromeassociated with tropical spastic paraparesis: a case report

El virus linfotrópico de células T humanas tipo 1(HTLV-1, por sus siglas en inglés) es parte de la familia de los Retroviridae, perteneciente al género de los Delta retrovirus, está compuesto por una envoltura lipídica, obtenida de la célula huésped, en la superficie expresa proteínas transmembrana que le permite el anclaje e internalización por endocitosis al citoplasma celular. En su interior cuenta con una hebra de ARN de cadena simple en sentido positivo, además de las enzimas integrasa y transcriptasa inversa que forman la núcleo cápside icosaédrica. El virus linfotrópico de células T humanas está ampliamente distribuido a nivel mundial. Existen múltiples vías de transmisión (Transmisión vertical, interacciones sexuales, transfusiones sanguíneas, uso de drogas ilícitas endovenosas y el contacto de fluidos cargados de viriones con las mucosas). El 90% de los pacientes expuestos no desarrollaran síntomas, pero existe un 10% de los pacientes que desarrollaran el cuadro clínico. El HTLV-1 se asocia a dos cuadros clínicos bien establecidos: la paraparesia espática tropical y el linfoma cutáneo-T-leucemia de células T. Al ser inusual, presentándose en 1 de cada 100.000 habitantes, se discute el caso de una paciente femenina de 63 años de edad, con antecedentes de acalasia corregida quirúrgicamente, quien consulta con cuadro clínico de 2 meses de duración, caracterizado por debilidad progresiva simétrica en miembros inferiores que le impide la deambulación, incontinencia urinaria, lesiones cutáneas extensas y la presencia de hiperleucocitosis con más de 20% de blastos en sangre periférica, se realiza inmunofenotipo expresando que el 85% de linfocito T neoplásicos, resultando en leucemia de células T o síndrome de Sezary, posteriormente se confirma el diagnóstico al realizar Elisa de cuarta generación positivo para HTLV-1(AU)

The human T-cell lymphotropic virus is part of the Retroviridae family, belonging to the Delta retrovirus genus, thisvirus is composed of a lipid envelope, obtained from the hos tcell, on the surface it expresses transmembrane proteins that allow it to anchor and internalization by endocytosis into the cell cytoplasm. Inside it has a single-stranded RNA strand the positive direction, in addition to the enzymes integrase andreverse transcriptase that form the icosahedral nucleo capsid. Human T-cell T-cell lymphotrophic virus is widely distribute dworldwide. There are multiple routes of transmission (vertical transmission, sexual interactions, blood transfusions, use of intravenous illicit drugs and contact of virion-laden fluidswith mucous membranes). 90% of exposed patients will not develop symptoms, but there is 10% of patients who will develop the clinical picture, HTLV-1 is associated with twowell-established clinical pictures: tropical spastic paraplegia and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. T-cell leukemia. As it is unusual, occurring in 1 out of every 100,000 inhabitants, the caseof a 63-year-old female patient with a history of surgically corrected achalasia is discussed, who consults with a clinical picture of 2 months duration, characterized due to progressive symmetrical weakness in the lower limbs that prevent walking, urinary incontinence, extensive skin lesions and the presence of hyperleukocytosis with more than 20% of blasts in peripheralblood, an immunophenotype is performed, expressing that 85% of neoplastic T lymphocytes, resulting in (T-cell leukemia) Sesary syndrome, diagnosis is later confirmed by performing afourth generation Elisa positive for HT LV-1(AU)

Distribución geográfica y tipo de infección del virus linfotrópico T humano en pacientes peruanos 2019-2021 / Geographic distribution and type of human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) infection in Peruvian patients 2019-2021

En el presente estudio describimos y caracterizamos la distribución geográfica de los casos positivos confirmados a HTLV-1 y 2 de pacientes peruanos con diagnóstico presuntivo entre 2019 y 2021. De un total de 555 muestras positivas confirmadas, 546 (98,4%) fueron HTLV-1 y 9 (1,6%) HTLV-2. Además, 22 de 24 departamentos del Perú presentaron casos de HTLV-1, siendo los principales motivos de solicitud de confirmación diagnóstica: aspirante a donar sangre con prueba de tamizaje reactivo, sospecha de leucemia/linfoma y paraparesia espástica tropical. Los resultados reflejan que la identificación de los puntos críticos constituye una brecha persistente respecto al diagnóstico, siendo cruciales para reducir el número de nuevos casos en Perú.

In the present study we describe and characterize the geographic distribution of HTLV-1 and 2 positive cases from Peruvian patients with presumptive diagnosis 2019 - 2021. Of a total of 555 confirmed positive samples, 546 (98.4%) were HTLV-1 and 9 (1.6%) HTLV-2. In addition, 22 of 24 departments of Peru presented cases of HTLV-1. The main reasons for requesting a confirmatory diagnosis being: aspiring to donate blood with a reactive screening test, suspicion of leukemia/ lymphoma and tropical spastic paraparesis. The results reflect that the identification of critical points constitutes a persistent gap regarding the diagnosis, being crucial to reduce the number of new cases in Peru.

Elderly people with human T-cell leukemia virus type 1-associated myelopathy present an early impairment in cognitive skills / Idosos com mielopatia associada ao vírus da leucemia de células T humanas tipo 1apresentam comprometimento precoce em habilidades cognitivas

Abstract Background Cerebral changes occur in individuals with human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1 )-associated myelopathy (HAM) and seem to predominate in subcortical areas. Little is known about the cognitive decline in the elderly living with HTLV-1. Objective To evaluate the cognitive aging of individuals infected with HTLV-1 aged ≥ 50 years. Methods This is a cross-sectional study of former blood donors infected with HTLV-1 who have been followed in the cohort of the Interdisciplinary Research Group on HTLV-1 since 1997. The groups of study consisted of 79 HTLV-1 infected individuals aged ≥ 50 years, with 41 of them presenting symptomatic HAM and 38 being asymptomatic carriers, and 59 seronegative individuals (controls) aged ≥ 60 years. All were submitted to the P300 electrophysiological test and neuropsychological tests. Results Individuals with HAM presented delayed P300 latency in relation to the other groups, and this latency delay increased progressively with aging. The performance of this group in the neuropsychological tests was also the worst. The HTLV-1- asymptomatic group performance was similar to that of the control group. Conclusions Individuals with HAM presented cognitive decline that progressed with aging and, although HTLV-1-asymptomatic carriers appear to present cognitive aging similar to that of healthy elderly people, concern about a subclinical cognitive impairment is warranted in this population.

Resumo Antecedentes Alterações cerebrais ocorrem em indivíduos com mielopatia associada ao vírus da leucemia de células T humanas tipo 1 (HTLV-1) (HAM) e parecem predominar em áreas subcorticais. Pouco se sabe sobre o declínio cognitivo em idosos vivendo com HTLV-1. Objetivo Avaliar o envelhecimento cognitivo de indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1 com idade ≥ 50 anos. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo transversal com ex-doadores de sangue infectados pelo HTLV-1 acompanhados na coorte do Grupo Interdisciplinar de Pesquisa em HTLV-1 há 20 anos. Os grupos de estudo foram compostos por 79 indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1 com idade ≥ 50 anos, sendo que 41 apresentavam HAM e 38 eram portadores assintomáticos, e 59 indivíduos soronegativos (controles) com idade ≥ 60 anos. Todos foram submetidos ao teste eletrofisiológico P300 e testes neuropsicológicos. Resultados Indivíduos com HAM apresentaram atraso na latência do P300 em relação aos demais grupos, e esse atraso de latência aumentou progressivamente com o envelhecimento. O desempenho desse grupo nos testes neuropsicológicos também foi o pior. O desempenho do grupo HTLV-1- assintomático foi semelhante ao do grupo controle. Conclusão Indivíduos com HAM apresentaram declínio cognitivo que progrediu com o envelhecimento e, embora os portadores assintomáticos do HTLV-1 pareçam apresentar envelhecimento cognitivo semelhante ao dos idosos saudáveis, justificase a preocupação com um comprometimento cognitivo subclínico nessa população.

Impaired flexibility in patients with tropical spastic paraparesis/HTLV-associated myelopathy: evaluation via pendulum fleximeter / Flexibilidade prejudicada em pacientes com paraparesia espástica tropical/mielopatia associada ao HTLV: avaliação via flexímetro pendular

Abstract Background Flexibility is crucial to the harmonious execution of joint movements. While skeletal muscle dysfunction in patients with HTLV-1 can interfere with mobility, it is unclear whether these patients experience reduced flexibility. Objective To evaluate the differences in flexibility between HTLV-1-infected individuals with and without myelopathy compared with uninfected controls. We also investigated whether age, sex, body mass index (BMI), physical activity level, or lower back pain influence flexibility in HTLV-1-infected individuals. Methods The sample consisted of 56 adults, of which 15 did not have HTLV-1, 15 had HTLV-1 without myelopathy, and 26 had TSP/HAM. Their flexibility was assessed using the sit-and-reach test and a pendulum fleximeter. Results No differences in flexibility were observed between the groups with and without myelopathy and controls without HTLV-1 infection using the sit-and-reach test. The pendulum fleximeter results of individuals with TSP/HAM presented the lowest flexibility among the groups with respect to trunk flexion, hip flexion and extension, knee flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion, even after adjusting for age, sex, BMI, level of physical activity, and lower back pain using multiple linear regression models. Additionally, HTLV-1-infected individuals without myelopathy demonstrated reduced flexibility in movements: knee flexion, dorsiflexion, and ankle plantar flexion. Conclusions Individuals with TSP/HAM demonstrated reduced flexibility in most of the movements evaluated by the pendulum fleximeter. Additionally, HTLV-1-infected individuals without myelopathy demonstrated reduced knee and ankle flexibility, potentially representing a marker of myelopathic development.

Resumo Antecedentes A flexibilidade é fundamental para a execução harmoniosa dos movimentos articulares. Embora a disfunção do músculo esquelético em pacientes com HTLV-1 possa interferir na mobilidade, não está claro se esses pacientes apresentam flexibilidade reduzida. Objetivo Avaliar as diferenças de flexibilidade entre os indivíduos infectados com e sem mielopatia e o grupo controle sem infecção HTLV-1. Também investigamos se idade, sexo, índice de massa corporal (IMC), nível de atividade física ou dor lombar influenciam a flexibilidade em indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1. Métodos A amostra foi composta por 56 adultos, dos quais 15 não possuíam HTLV-1, 15 possuíam HTLV-1 sem mielopatia e 26 possuíam TSP/HAM. A flexibilidade foi avaliada por meio do teste de sentar e alcançar e do flexímetro de pêndulo. Resultados Não foram observadas diferenças na flexibilidade entre os grupos com e sem mielopatia no teste de sentar e alcançar. Os resultados do flexímetro pendular dos indivíduos com TSP/HAM apresentaram a menor flexibilidade entre os grupos em relação à flexão do tronco, flexão e extensão do quadril, flexão do joelho e dorsiflexão do tornozelo, mesmo após ajuste para idade, sexo, IMC, nível de atividade física e dor lombar usando modelos de regressão múltipla linear. Além disso, os indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1 sem mielopatia demonstraram redução da flexibilidade nos movimentos de flexão do joelho, dorsiflexão e flexão plantar do tornozelo. Conclusão Indivíduos com TSP/HAM demonstraram redução da flexibilidade na maioria dos movimentos avaliados pelo flexímetro pendular. Além disso, indivíduos infectados pelo HTLV-1 sem mielopatia demonstraram redução da flexibilidade do joelho e tornozelo, representando potencialmente um marcador de desenvolvimento mielopático.

Research on HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 in Latin America and the Caribbean over the last ten years.

Worldwide, Human T-lymphtropic virus-1 and 2 (HTLV-1 and 2) infects approximately more than 10 million people, mostly occurring in hyperendemic areas such as the region of Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). A comprehensive bibliographic exploration of original articles published on the Web of Science Core Collection database over the last 10 years was done. A bibliometric analysis was performed using the bibliometrix package in RStudio and VOSviewer. A total of 519 articles published in 194 journals were identified along the 10 years studied. In 2012 the peak number of publications was identified and the average number of citations per document was 1.33. Galvao-Castro B was the author with the greatest number of publications. Aids Research and Human Retroviruses was the most productive journal, and the study by Bangham CRM was the most cited. Brazil was the country with most corresponding authors that had the most publications and the most significant number of total citations. Infections and HTLV-1 were the most used keywords. In conclusion, according to the current quantitative analysis, there is a need for more significant promotion of research on HTLV-1 and 2 among the scientific community of LAC.

Evolution of erectile dysfunction in individuals infected with human T-lymphotropic virus 1: a prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Virtually all patients with human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1)-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) have some degree of erectile dysfunction (ED), but ED is also found in a large percentage of HTLV-1 carriers. AIM: To evaluate the evolution of ED in individuals infected with HTLV-1 who were followed for up to 15 years. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included men infected with HTLV-1 who had ED, were aged 18 to 70 years, and were followed from January 2004 to December 2019. We used the International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5), the Expanded Disability Status Scale and Osame Motor Disability Scale, and the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) to define and stratify ED, neurologic disability, and bladder dysfunction, respectively. OUTCOMES: Time to development of severe ED was the main outcome. RESULTS: We studied 90 men with ED (mean ± SD age, 52.8 ± 9.78 years). At baseline, 42 were carriers, 16 had probable HAM/TSP, and 32 had definite HAM/TSP. IIEF-5 was highest among carriers and lowest in patients with definite HAM/TSP, whereas OABSS was lowest in carriers and highest in patients with definite HAM/TSP. Median (IQR) follow-up was 8.50 years (3.00-12.00). IIEF-5 fell significantly from baseline to last follow-up among carriers and patients with probable and definite HAM/TSP. There was an inverse correlation between the IIEF-5 and the OABSS at last follow-up (r = -0.62, P < .001). In survival analysis, the time to development of severe ED was significantly shorter in patients with definite HAM/TSP when compared with carriers (P = .001) and those with probable HAM/TSP (P = .014). The presence of definite HAM/TSP at baseline was independently associated with the development of severe ED, after adjustment for baseline age and proviral load (hazard ratio, 6.74; P = .008). CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Formal assessment of erectile function should be part of the routine clinical assessment of individuals infected with HTLV-1; worsening erectile function should alert clinicians to the possibility of neurologic deterioration. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS: This is the first prospective cohort study to describe the course of ED in men infected with HTLV-1. The small sample size and absence of seronegative controls are limitations. CONCLUSION: ED is a slowly progressive clinical manifestation of HTLV-1 infection, and the degree of neurologic compromise at baseline is the main predictor of time to progression to severe ED.

Postural Adjustments in HTLV-1 Infected Patients during a Self-Initiated Perturbation.

BACKGROUND: Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) infection can be associated with tropical spastic paraparesis (TSP/HAM), which causes neurological myelopathy and sensory and muscle tone alterations, leading to gait and balance impairments. Once trunk perturbation is predicted, the motor control system uses anticipatory and compensatory mechanisms to maintain balance by recruiting postural muscles and displacement of the body's center of mass. METHODS: Twenty-six participants (control or infected) had lower limb muscle onset and center of pressure (COP) displacements assessed prior to perturbation and throughout the entire movement. RESULTS: Semitendinosus (ST) showed delayed onset in the infected group compared to the control group. The percentage of trials with detectable anticipatory postural adjustment was also lower in infected groups in the tibialis anterior and ST. In addition, COP displacement in the infected group was delayed, had a smaller amplitude, and took longer to reach the maximum displacement. CONCLUSIONS: HTLV-1 infected patients have less efficient anticipatory adjustments and greater difficulty recovering their postural control during the compensatory phase. Clinical assessment of this population should consider postural stability during rehabilitation programs.

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.

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.

HTLV-1 Is Also a Sexually Transmitted Infection.

HTLV-1 is a retrovirus which causes diverse diseases in 10% of its infected population, significantly worsening their quality of life and mortality rate. Even though it is globally distributed and is endemic in many countries (including Peru), it is still highly neglected. It spreads through vertical, sexual and parenteral transmission. As no effective treatment against this virus exist, prevention is required to contain it. The World Health Organization published a technical report on the matter in 2021, with the collaboration of international HTLV-1 experts. However, neither the impact of sexual transmission (cause of the majority of adult cases and infection in non-endemic areas) nor its prevention were considered. Evidence is presented, which shows the magnitude of sexual transmission, its risk factors and preventive measures; hoping it will encourage health workers to help eradicate this infection.

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

Genome analysis suggests HTLV-1aA introduction in Chile related to migrations of ancestral indigenous populations.

The human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), unlike other RNA viruses such as HIV, has a stable genome and has infected humans since remote times. Although the HTLV-1 infection is endemic in South America, there is scarce information about HTLV-1 in Chile and its history of introduction. This study assessed the genomic content of HTLV-1 from Chile and its relationship with HTLV-1 lineages circulating worldwide by phylogenetic reconstruction and dating analyses. A total of 30 HTLV-1 genomes collected from the four continents were used to conduct dating analyses, including the first HTLV-1 genome from Amerindian/Mapuche ethnicity. Estimation was performed using a Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo coalescent-based approach as implemented in the BEAST program. The time of the most recent ancestor of HTLV-1 from Chile was ∼1409 years ago, which coincides with the period of Amerindian population expansion across South America. Our results suggest HTLV-1aA was possibly introduced in Chile during the migrations of the ancestral indigenous populations.

Cerebral and spinal cord changes observed through magnetic resonance imaging in patients with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis: a systematic review.

To verify brain and spinal changes using magnetic resonance imaging in patients with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis. This was a systematic review. The descriptors used were tropical spastic paraparesis and magnetic resonance image. The keyword HTLV-1-associated myelopathy was also used. Twenty-three articles were included: 16 detected brain changes and 18 detected spinal changes. White matter lesions were the most frequent finding in the brain. Brain injuries were most frequently identified in the periventricular region, in the subcortical region, in the centrum semiovale, in the brain stem, and corpus callosum. Atrophy was the most frequent finding of the spinal cord, affecting the thoracic and cervical regions, and was associated with a longer evolution of myelopathy. White matter lesions in these regions were also observed. Cortical white matter lesions and thoracic spinal cord atrophy were the most frequently reported changes in patients with HTLV-1-associated myelopathy.