Human T-Cell Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV I/II) Antibody Test

Sample

1. The serum of the patient is needed.
2. The random sample may be used.

Purpose of the test (Indication)

1. This is used to diagnose a certain type of leukemia (T-cell leukemia).
2. To diagnose demyelinating neurological disease.

Pathophysiology

1. This is human retrovirus associated with :
   1. HTLV-I is associated with T-cell leukemia and lymphoma.
   2. HTLV-II is associated with:
      1. Demyelinating neurological disorder (tropical spastic paraparesis).
      2. Hairy cell leukemia.
2. This is human retrovirus belongs to the Retroviridae family in the genus Deltaretrovirus.
   1. Retroviruses are RNA viruses with the presence of reverse transpeptidase enzyme which converts RNA virus to DNA virus which incorporates into the genome of the host and mostly affects T-lymphocytes.
      

      HTLV Structure

3. This is endemic in southern Japan, a Caribbean island, South America, and areas of Africa.

Mode of spread. This is like HIV:

1. Body fluids contaminations.
2. Intravenous drug use.
3. Sexual transmission.
4. Breastfeeding. There is a risk of 20% spread to infants and depends upon the duration of breastfeeding.

In the USA HTLV-I has been found in:

1. Patient with ATL (adult T- cell leukemia).
2. Intravenous drug users.
3. Donated blood products.
   1. There are 40 to 60% chances of seroconversion in the contaminated blood.
   2. While more risk to the immunocompromised patient.
4. Even in healthy persons.
5. In the case of transplantation of the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

Normal

• Antibodies are negative.

Positive HTLV antibodies are seen in:

1. Acute HTLV infection.
2. Adult T-cell leukemia.
3. Tropical spastic paraparesis.
4. Hairy cell leukemia.

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