HHV6 Encephalitis in Children After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation

Abstract

HHV-6 is a roseolovirus, existing in two distinct genetic subsets, HHV-6a and HHV-6b. Most infections are due to HHV6b. The primary infection normally happens during the first 3 years of life and the virus develops lifelong latency. Typical symptoms as exanthema, fever, lymphadenopathy and cough resolve within a week. Secondary infections as e.g. bronchopneumia are rare in immunecompetent patients.