Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Co-Infection in HIV/AIDS Individuals: Clinical Diagnosis, Consequences and Treatments

Abstract

Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV) was named for its role as the causative agent of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), which is MCV positive in approximately 80% of cases. MCV is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen, which promotes carcinogenesis by integrating T-antigen into the cell genome. The prevalence of anti-MCV antibodies in the general population can be as high as 90%. MCV typically promotes cancer by integrating T-antigen genes into the host cell genome, and 80% of MCC cases are attributed to MCV activation. In immunocompetent individuals, MCV usually remains latent after infection. However, the incidence of MCC increases significantly in immunocompromised or immunodeficient patients, such as those who have undergone organ transplantation, have chronic lymphocytic leukemia, or are living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Acquired immunodeficiency is a particular feature of people living with HIV. Currently, research on HIV/AIDS patients with MCV infection, clinical outcomes, and treatments is quite limited. This paper reviews previous research and systematically examines the relationship between HIV/AIDS and MCV-associated diseases, with the aim of providing valuable information for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of MCV in vulnerable populations.