The Relevance of HTLV-1-associated Myelopathy/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis in Iran: A Review Study

Abstract

Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) is a retrovirus, which is the causative agent of adult T-cell leukaemia (ATL) and HTLV-I-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). Evidence suggests that the interaction of HTLV-1 with the cellular-immune system plays a key role in the development of HAM/TSP. However, the main mechanism in this regard remains unknown. The present study aimed to review the HAM/TSP pathogenesis, current status of HTLV-1 in Iran, and available treatments for HTLV-1 infection.