25.3 Viral Infections of the Circulatory and Lymphatic Systems

3 min readjune 18, 2024

Viruses that target the circulatory and lymphatic systems can wreak havoc on our bodies. From the "kissing disease" caused by to the potentially life-threatening ###/AIDS_0###, these infections pose significant health risks.

Mosquito-borne viruses like , dengue, and chikungunya share common symptoms but differ in severity and treatment options. HIV progresses through distinct stages, requiring careful management and monitoring to prevent AIDS and associated complications.

Viral Infections of the Circulatory and Lymphatic Systems

Common circulatory and lymphatic viruses

Top images from around the web for Common circulatory and lymphatic viruses
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    • Transmission primarily through saliva known as the "kissing disease" but can also be transmitted through blood transfusions and organ transplants
    • Symptoms include with fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes (), and fatigue and in some cases can lead to complications such as or
    • Treatment mainly involves supportive care with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers while antiviral medications may be used in severe cases
    • Transmission occurs through close contact with body fluids like saliva, blood, urine, semen, and breast milk, from mother to fetus, and organ transplantation or blood transfusion
    • Symptoms often asymptomatic in healthy individuals but in immunocompromised patients can include fever, fatigue, muscle aches, enlarged liver and spleen, pneumonia, and which is inflammation of the retina while can cause birth defects and developmental issues
    • Treatment involves antiviral medications like or for immunocompromised patients or severe cases and supportive care for mild cases

Characteristics of arthropod-borne viral diseases

    • Transmission by mosquito bites from and species ()
    • Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases
    • Prevention through vaccination and mosquito control
    • Treatment involves supportive care
    • Transmission by mosquito bites from Aedes species
    • Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, and skin rash
    • Prevention through mosquito control and personal protection measures
    • Treatment involves supportive care, fluid management, and pain relief
    • Transmission by mosquito bites from Aedes species
    • Symptoms include sudden onset of high fever, severe joint pain, headache, muscle pain, and rash
    • Prevention through mosquito control and personal protection measures
    • Treatment involves supportive care, pain relief, and rest Similarities among these diseases include being caused by viruses transmitted through mosquito bites and sharing common symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle pain

Differences include yellow fever causing and having a higher mortality rate, potentially leading to a severe form called , being characterized by severe joint pain that can persist for months, and yellow fever having a vaccine available while dengue and chikungunya do not

Stages and management of HIV/AIDS

  • Stages of HIV infection

    1. 2-4 weeks after exposure with flu-like symptoms and high ()
    2. with asymptomatic or mild symptoms and gradual decline in count
    3. when CD4 T-cell count drops below 200 cells/mm³ leading to and cancers
  • Diagnostic methods

    • Antibody tests like ELISA and detect HIV antibodies in the blood and are used for initial screening
    • Antigen/Antibody combination tests detect both HIV antibodies and and can identify infection earlier than antibody tests alone
    • detect HIV RNA in the blood and are used for early detection and monitoring viral load
  • Current management approaches

    • uses a combination of multiple antiretroviral drugs to suppress viral replication and help maintain CD4 T-cell count and prevent opportunistic infections
    • Monitoring involves regular check-ups to assess CD4 T-cell count and viral load and screening for opportunistic infections and other health issues
    • for opportunistic infections prescribed when CD4 T-cell count drops below certain thresholds
    • Supportive care includes nutritional support, mental health care, and substance abuse treatment if needed

Viral pathogenesis and host interactions

  • determines which tissues or cells a virus can infect, influencing disease manifestation
  • contribute to a virus's ability to cause disease and overcome host defenses
  • can result from viral infections, making the host more susceptible to opportunistic infections

Key Terms to Review (86)

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS): Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, potentially life-threatening condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). It is characterized by the progressive destruction of the immune system, leaving the infected individual vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers that can be fatal if left untreated.
Acute HIV Infection: Acute HIV infection is the initial stage of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, characterized by a rapid and intense viral replication shortly after the virus enters the body. This stage is a critical period that precedes the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the most advanced stage of HIV infection.
Aedes: Aedes is a genus of mosquitoes that are known vectors for several viral diseases, including dengue fever, Zika virus, chikungunya, and yellow fever. These mosquitoes are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions and are characterized by their distinctive black and white striped legs and bodies.
Aedes aegypti: Aedes aegypti is a species of mosquito known for transmitting several viral infections, including dengue fever, Zika virus, and chikungunya. It is primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Aedes africanus: Aedes africanus is a species of mosquito known to be a vector for transmitting viral infections such as yellow fever and dengue. It primarily inhabits forested regions in Africa and has significant implications for public health due to its role in spreading viruses.
Antiretroviral therapy: Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a medical treatment that uses combinations of antiretroviral drugs to manage and control HIV infection. The goal is to reduce the viral load in the blood to undetectable levels, improving immune function and preventing transmission.
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): Antiretroviral therapy (ART) refers to the use of medications to treat and manage HIV infection. It involves a combination of different antiretroviral drugs that work together to suppress the replication of the virus, preventing it from progressing to AIDS and improving the health and lifespan of individuals living with HIV.
Arbovirus: Arboviruses are a group of viruses transmitted by arthropod vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks. They can cause various diseases affecting the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Arbovirus: An arbovirus, or arthropod-borne virus, is a virus that is transmitted by arthropod vectors, primarily insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, and sand flies. These viruses are capable of infecting and replicating within both the arthropod vector and the vertebrate host, making them a significant public health concern.
B lymphocyte: B lymphocytes, or B cells, are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the adaptive immune system by producing antibodies to neutralize pathogens. They originate from bone marrow and are involved in the humoral immune response.
Breakbone fever: Breakbone fever, also known as dengue fever, is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus. It leads to severe flu-like symptoms and can affect the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
BSL-4: BSL-4 (Biosafety Level 4) is the highest level of biological safety containment. It is used for work with highly dangerous and exotic pathogens that pose a high risk of aerosol-transmitted infections and for which there are no available vaccines or treatments.
Burkitt lymphoma: Burkitt lymphoma is a fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that originates from B lymphocytes. It is strongly associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV).
CD4 T-cell: CD4 T-cells, also known as helper T-cells, are a type of lymphocyte that play a crucial role in the adaptive immune response. They coordinate and regulate various immune functions, making them a key player in the context of viral infections of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Chikungunya fever: Chikungunya fever is a viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes, causing sudden onset of fever and severe joint pain. The virus belongs to the family Togaviridae and genus Alphavirus.
Chikungunya Fever: Chikungunya fever is a viral infection caused by the chikungunya virus, which is transmitted to humans primarily through the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes. It is characterized by acute fever, severe joint pain, and other debilitating symptoms that can persist for weeks or even months.
Chronic HIV Infection: Chronic HIV infection refers to the persistent and long-term infection with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). This condition is characterized by the gradual deterioration of the immune system over an extended period, leading to an increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and the development of various HIV-related complications.
Cidofovir: Cidofovir is an antiviral medication used primarily to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, particularly in immunocompromised patients. It works by inhibiting viral DNA polymerase, preventing viral replication.
Congenital CMV: Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a viral infection that occurs when a pregnant woman passes the CMV virus to her unborn baby. This can happen during pregnancy, resulting in the baby being born with the infection.
Cryptosporidiosis: Cryptosporidiosis is a diarrheal disease caused by the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium. It primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract and can be severe in immunocompromised individuals.
Cyclophosphamide: Cyclophosphamide is a chemotherapy drug and immunosuppressant used to treat various types of cancer and autoimmune diseases. It works by interfering with the growth and replication of rapidly dividing cells, including immune cells.
Cytarabine: Cytarabine is a chemotherapy agent used primarily to treat certain leukemias and lymphomas. It interferes with DNA synthesis, making it effective against rapidly dividing cells.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a common virus that can infect people of all ages and often remains dormant in the body. It is a member of the herpesvirus family and can cause severe complications in immunocompromised individuals and newborns.
Cytomegalovirus (CMV): Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a type of herpes virus that can cause a wide range of viral infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. It is closely related to other herpesviruses and can establish lifelong latent infections within the host.
Dengue fever: Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus. It leads to symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding.
Dengue Fever: Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause a range of symptoms, from mild fever to severe and potentially fatal complications. It is a significant global public health concern, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, and is associated with viral infections of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe and potentially life-threatening form of dengue, a viral infection transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It is characterized by high fever, bleeding, and plasma leakage, which can lead to circulatory system and lymphatic system complications if not properly managed.
Doxorubicin: Doxorubicin is an anthracycline antibiotic commonly used as a chemotherapeutic agent. It works by intercalating DNA, thereby inhibiting the replication of cancer cells and certain viruses.
Ebolavirus: Ebolavirus is a genus of viruses in the family Filoviridae that cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates. These viruses are characterized by their filamentous shape and high mortality rates.
Epstein-Barr virus: Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a herpesvirus that primarily infects B cells and epithelial cells, causing mononucleosis. It is associated with several cancers, including Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human herpesvirus that primarily infects B lymphocytes and epithelial cells. It is a significant cause of viral infections affecting the circulatory and lymphatic systems, leading to various clinical manifestations.
Etoposide: Etoposide is a chemotherapeutic agent used primarily to treat cancer by inhibiting the enzyme topoisomerase II, which leads to DNA breakage and apoptosis of cancer cells. It can impact the circulatory and lymphatic systems due to its systemic effects and potential for causing secondary infections.
Filovirus: Filovirus is a genus of viruses that includes Ebola and Marburg viruses, which cause severe hemorrhagic fevers in humans and nonhuman primates. They are filamentous, enveloped viruses with a single-stranded RNA genome.
Flavivirus: Flavivirus is a genus of viruses in the family Flaviviridae, typically transmitted by arthropods such as mosquitoes and ticks. These viruses are known to cause various serious diseases affecting the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Foscarnet: Foscarnet is an antiviral medication used to treat serious viral infections, particularly those caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes simplex viruses (HSV). It works by inhibiting viral DNA polymerase, preventing the replication of viral DNA.
Fulminant hepatitis: Fulminant hepatitis is a severe and sudden liver failure caused by rapid liver cell death, often due to viral infections like hepatitis B or C. It leads to coagulopathy, encephalopathy, and can be life-threatening.
Ganciclovir: Ganciclovir is an antiviral medication primarily used to treat and prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections, which can occur in immunocompromised individuals such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients. It works by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis, thereby preventing the replication and spread of the virus within the host's cells.
Haemagogus: Haemagogus is a genus of mosquitoes that are known vectors for the transmission of various viral diseases, particularly yellow fever virus. These mosquitoes are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas and play a crucial role in the epidemiology of viral infections affecting the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Hantavirus: Hantavirus is a family of viruses spread primarily by rodents, causing various diseases in humans including hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS). These diseases are characterized by severe respiratory or renal symptoms and can be fatal.
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome: Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is a severe respiratory disease in humans caused by infection with hantaviruses. It is primarily transmitted through inhalation of aerosolized particles from rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome: Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a group of illnesses caused by hantaviruses, characterized by fever, hemorrhage, and renal dysfunction. It primarily affects the vascular system and kidneys.
Hepatitis: Hepatitis is a general term that refers to inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections. It can lead to a range of liver-related complications and is an important topic in the context of viral infections of the gastrointestinal tract and circulatory/lymphatic systems.
HIV: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that targets the immune system, specifically CD4 cells (T cells), leading to a progressive failure of the immune system. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
HIV/AIDS: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically the CD4+ T cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections. If left untreated, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a late stage of the infection where the immune system is severely compromised, leaving the individual vulnerable to opportunistic infections and certain cancers. Understanding the characteristics of HIV/AIDS is crucial in the context of infectious disease, global public health, fungal infections of the reproductive system, and viral infections of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Human herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4): Human herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4), also known as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), is a member of the herpesvirus family. It primarily infects B cells and epithelial cells, causing infectious mononucleosis and being implicated in various cancers.
Human herpesvirus 5 (HHV-5): Human herpesvirus 5 (HHV-5), also known as cytomegalovirus (CMV), is a common virus that can infect anyone. It is particularly significant in immunocompromised individuals and can cause serious complications.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV): Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that targets and weakens the immune system by infecting CD4+ T cells. It can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) if untreated.
Ifosfamide: Ifosfamide is a chemotherapy drug used to treat various types of cancer by interfering with the DNA replication process in rapidly dividing cells. It is an alkylating agent that can also suppress immune system activity, impacting infections in the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Immunosuppression: Immunosuppression refers to the reduction or inhibition of the normal immune response, either through natural means or through medical intervention. This can have significant implications in various areas of health and disease.
Infectious mononucleosis: Infectious mononucleosis, commonly known as mono or the 'kissing disease,' is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It primarily affects the circulatory and lymphatic systems, leading to symptoms such as fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
Infectious Mononucleosis: Infectious mononucleosis, also known as mono or the 'kissing disease,' is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) that primarily affects the circulatory and lymphatic systems. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes, and is typically spread through contact with saliva or respiratory droplets.
Jaundice: Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels in the blood. It often indicates underlying issues with the liver, bile ducts, or red blood cells.
Jaundice: Jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes caused by an accumulation of bilirubin in the body. It is a common symptom associated with various viral infections that affect the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Kaposi’s sarcoma: Kaposi’s sarcoma is a cancer that forms in the lining of blood and lymph vessels. It is commonly associated with Human Herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8) infection and often seen in immunocompromised individuals.
Kidney transplants: A kidney transplant is a surgical procedure to place a healthy kidney from a donor into someone with kidney failure. This can be critical in treating end-stage renal disease.
Leukopenia: Leukopenia is a condition characterized by an abnormally low number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood, which can increase susceptibility to infections. It is often a result of viral infections impacting the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Lymphadenopathy: Lymphadenopathy refers to the abnormal enlargement or swelling of lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped organs that are part of the lymphatic system. This condition can occur in response to various viral infections that affect the skin, eyes, circulatory, and lymphatic systems.
Methotrexate: Methotrexate is a chemotherapy agent and immune system suppressant used to treat certain types of cancer as well as autoimmune diseases. It works by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, disrupting cell division, and DNA replication.
Nucleic acid test: A nucleic acid test (NAT) detects specific genetic material from pathogens like viruses or bacteria in a sample. It is highly sensitive and can identify infections even at low levels of pathogen presence.
Nucleic Acid Tests (NAT): Nucleic acid tests (NAT) are a class of diagnostic tests that detect the presence of specific genetic material, either DNA or RNA, from pathogens such as viruses. These tests are widely used in the diagnosis and monitoring of viral infections, including those affecting the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Opportunistic Infections: Opportunistic infections are infections caused by pathogens that normally do not cause disease in individuals with a healthy, functioning immune system, but can take advantage of weakened or compromised immunity to cause illness. These infections are a significant concern in individuals with immunodeficiencies, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or organ transplants, who are more susceptible to developing these types of infections.
P24 Antigen: The p24 antigen is a structural protein found within the core of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). It is a key diagnostic marker used to detect the presence of HIV in infected individuals, particularly in the context of viral infections of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Pregnancy: Pregnancy is the condition of carrying one or more embryos or fetuses in the uterus. It typically lasts around 40 weeks from the last menstrual period to childbirth.
Prophylaxis: Prophylaxis is the prevention of disease through various measures, such as vaccines or hygiene practices. It aims to prevent the onset of infection by preemptively boosting immune defenses.
Prophylaxis: Prophylaxis refers to the measures taken to prevent the occurrence or development of a disease or condition. It is a proactive approach to healthcare that aims to avoid the onset of illness or infection rather than treating it after it has already occurred.
Retinitis: Retinitis is an inflammation of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye responsible for vision. It can be caused by various viral infections that can affect the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Retroviruses: Retroviruses are a family of enveloped viruses that replicate in a host cell through the process of reverse transcription. They integrate their RNA genome into the DNA of the host cell, which is then transcribed and translated by the host machinery.
Ribavirin: Ribavirin is an antiviral medication used to treat various viral infections by inhibiting viral RNA synthesis. It is commonly used in the treatment of hepatitis C and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.
Splenic Rupture: Splenic rupture is a life-threatening condition characterized by the sudden and uncontrolled bleeding from a tear or break in the spleen, the organ located in the upper left part of the abdomen that filters blood and helps fight infection. This rupture can occur due to various causes, including trauma, certain medical conditions, or spontaneously.
TORCH: TORCH is an acronym for a group of infectious diseases that can cause severe complications in pregnant women and their fetuses. It includes Toxoplasmosis, Other (syphilis, varicella-zoster, parvovirus B19), Rubella, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Herpes simplex virus.
Toxoplasmosis: Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the unicellular eukaryotic parasite Toxoplasma gondii. It primarily affects the circulatory and lymphatic systems, often with mild symptoms in healthy individuals but can cause serious complications in immunocompromised patients and during pregnancy.
Tuberculosis: Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs but can spread to other organs.
Valganciclovir: Valganciclovir is an antiviral medication used primarily to treat cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. It is a prodrug of ganciclovir with improved oral bioavailability.
Valganciclovir: Valganciclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat and prevent viral infections, particularly those caused by the cytomegalovirus (CMV). It is a prodrug that is converted to the active form, ganciclovir, in the body, and is primarily used in the context of viral infections of the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Vertical Transmission: Vertical transmission refers to the transmission of a pathogen, such as a virus, from a mother to her offspring during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. This mode of transmission is particularly important in the context of viral infections affecting the reproductive system and the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Vincristine: Vincristine is a chemotherapy medication used to treat various types of cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. It specifically interferes with the formation of microtubules, which are essential for cell division.
Viral Load: Viral load refers to the amount or concentration of virus particles present in an infected individual's body fluids, typically measured in the blood. It is an important indicator of the severity of a viral infection and is widely used in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of various viral diseases.
Viral Tropism: Viral tropism refers to the specific affinity a virus has for certain host cells or tissues, which determines the sites of viral infection and replication. This concept is crucial in understanding the pathogenesis and tissue tropism of different viruses, as well as their potential for causing disease in various organs and systems.
Viremia: Viremia is the presence of viruses in the bloodstream, which allows them to be spread throughout the body. It can lead to systemic infections and is a crucial step in the pathogenesis of many viral diseases.
Viremia: Viremia refers to the presence of virus particles in the bloodstream. It is a crucial aspect of viral infections, as it allows the virus to circulate and potentially infect various tissues and organs throughout the body.
Virulence factors: Virulence factors are molecules produced by pathogens that contribute to the pathogenicity and severity of infections. They help the microorganism invade the host, evade the immune system, and obtain nutrients.
Virulence Factors: Virulence factors are specific characteristics or mechanisms that enable pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and eukaryotic organisms, to cause disease and harm the host. These factors contribute to the pathogenicity and severity of an infection by enhancing the pathogen's ability to invade, colonize, and evade the host's immune defenses.
Western Blot: The Western blot is an analytical technique used to detect and quantify specific proteins within a complex mixture of proteins extracted from cells or tissues. It is a powerful tool employed in various fields, including microbiology, immunology, and virology, to identify and characterize proteins of interest.
Yellow fever: Yellow fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by infected mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. It causes symptoms ranging from fever to severe liver disease and jaundice.
Yellow Fever: Yellow fever is a viral infection transmitted by infected mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is characterized by a range of symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, and in severe cases, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), which gives the disease its name.
Yellow Fever Initiative: The Yellow Fever Initiative is a global public health campaign aimed at reducing the incidence and spread of yellow fever through vaccination, surveillance, and rapid response efforts. The initiative focuses on high-risk areas to prevent outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
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