RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS: FROM DISCOVERY TO TREATMENT

Abstract

To review the epidemiology, identification, clinical patterns and treatment of respiratory syncytial virus infection. Raised available studies in the MEDLINE database using the keywords respiratory syncytial virus, respiratory infection, bronchiolitis and indirect immunofluorescence in international studies since 1980. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) was first time isolated in 1956 and became the most frequently agent found, especially in the lower respiratory tract of children. It is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality in children younger than 18 months with risk factors  such  as  prematurity  and  heart  disease.  It  shows  well-defined  distribution  along  the  year.  Histopathology, immunohistochemistry and standardized molecular techniques to identify the virus have been described. The specific treatment of RSV infection is still limited. Antiviral agents as ribavirin showed limited effectiveness and restricted to use in a few patients with severe heart disease. Vaccines needs further studies before marketed. Humanized monoclonal antibody - palivizumab - is safe, well tolerated and the most cost-effective when used in children at risk for severe RSV infection. The high rate of children hospital admissions by RSV infection is a public health issue. Treatment is yet  supportive  and  non  specific  according  to  severity.  Epidemiologic  surveillance,  routine  virus  identification and acessibility to health centers are the key points to control infection by this virus.