Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1)induces exaggerated Th1 responses, whereas atopy is associated with exacerbated Th2 responses.
METHODS:
Here, a cross-sectional study compared the prevalence of atopy in HTLV-1 carriers and HAM/TSP patients. It also compared the spontaneous cytokine production in HTLV-1-infected individuals. A retrospective cohort study evaluated the development of neurological manifestations in atopic and non-atopic carriers.
RESULTS:
Atopic HAM/TSP patients with high IFN-γ production exhibited higher IL-5 levels than non-atopic patients. Allergic rhinitis accelerated the development of Babinski signals and overactive bladders.
CONCLUSIONS:
Abnormal Th1 and Th2 responses coexist in HTLV-1-infected individuals and allergic diseases may worsen the clinical course of HTLV-1 infections.
Keywords:
HTLV-1; Atopy; Allergy; Immunology; Cytokines; HAM/TSP
Thumbnail
