Silent dissemination of HTLV-1 in an endemic area of Argentina. Epidemiological and molecular evidence of intrafamilial transmission.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Molecular and epidemiological studies of transmission routes and risk factors for infection by HTLV-1 are extremely important in order to implement control measures, especially because of the high prevalence of HTLV-1 in several regions of the world. San Salvador de Jujuy, Northwest Argentina, is a highly endemic area for HTLV-1 and foci of tropical spastic paraparesis/HTLV-1-associated myelopathy.

Objective

To gain further insight into the role of intrafamilial transmission of HTLV-1 in a highly endemic region in Argentina.

Method

Cross-sectional study in Northwest Argentina. Epidemiological data and blood samples were collected from 28 HTLV-1 infected subjects (index cases) and 92 close relatives/cohabitants. HTLV-1 infection was diagnosed by detection of

SUBMITTER: Frutos MC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5383099 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature