Human T-lymphotropic virus 2

HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 share broad similarities in their overall genetic organization and expression pattern, but they differ substantially in their pathogenic properties. In one study involving cultured lymphocytes from patients with mycosis fungoides (Figure 1), PCR amplification showed gene sequences of HTLV-II. This finding may suggest a possible correlation with HTLV-2 and CTCL. Further research and studies must be conducted to show a positive relationship. == Transmission ==

Perinatal transmission and breastfeeding and through blood transfusion, sexual contact, and use of intravenous drug usage. == Clinical significance ==

'', a skin disease showing nodules and plaques composed of lymphocytes spread across the skin, has been associated with HTLV-II infection An impact on platelet count has been observed. In the 1980s, HTLV-2 was identified in a patient with an unidentified T cell lymphoproliferative disease that was described as having characteristics similar to the B cell disorder, hairy cell leukemia. HTLV-2 was identified in a second patient with a T cell lymphoproliferative disease; this patient later developed hairy cell leukemia, but HTLV-2 was not found in the hairy cell clones. == Treatment ==

There are few treatments including chemotherapy and antiretrovirals that can slow the viral load but no cure or definitive treatment exists for HTLV-2. Diagnosis Human T- leukemia, type 2 (HTLV-2) is usually diagnosed based on blood tests that detect the virus. However, HTLV-2 is often never suspected or diagnosed since most people never develop any signs or symptoms of the infection. Diagnosis may occur during blood donation, testing performed due to an infection, or a work-up for an HTLV-2-associated medical problems. Prevention Due to there being no cure for HTLV II the prevention is focused on early detection and preventing the spread of HTLV-2 to others. blood donors, promoting safe sex, and discouraging needle sharing can decrease the number of new infections. Mother-to-child transmission can be reduced by screening pregnant women so infected mothers can avoid breastfeeding. Prognosis The long-term outlook for most people infected with HTLV-2 is good. Infection with HTLV-2 is lifelong, but 95% of affected people have no signs or symptoms of the condition. Although, HTLV-2-related health problems tend to be significantly milder than those associated with HTLV1. ==References==