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human T-cell lymphotropic virus, type 1

infectious agent
Also known as: HTLV-1

Quick Summary

Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus that carries its genetic information in the form of RNA. It was the first human retrovirus discovered, identified in 1979. HTLV-1 infects helper T lymphocytes, the same cells targeted by HIV.12

Transmission occurs through sexual intercourse, blood transfusions, or breastfeeding. While millions are infected worldwide, only a small percentage develop serious conditions like adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) or HTLV-1-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). The exact mechanism by which HTLV-1 causes cancer is not fully understood, but a viral protein called tax may play a role in promoting continuous proliferation of infected T cells.21

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