Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 infection

Abstract

Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) was the first retrovirus to be identified as pathogenic in humans. Since its discovery in 1980 and its association with a progressive myelopathy termed HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/ tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) in 1985, there has been accumulating evidence that HTLV-1 can cause multiple neurologic conditions, suggesting a wider impact of this infection on the human nervous system. In this review we describe the clinical presentation of the various HTLV-1-associated neurologic conditions with a focus on HAM/TSP. We also discuss the current status of knowledge regarding the immunopathogenesis, pathology, and radiologic findings in HAM/TSP. Finally, we highlight the therapeutic strategies that have been taken to date and discuss the clinical trials in HAM/TSP.