Herpesviruses Flashcards
Click on Answer for electron micrographs of herpesviruses.
What family do herpesviruses belong to?
Herpesviridae
State the three subfamilies of Herpesviruses, also listing their respective members.
(1) Alphaherpesviruses: HSV-1, HSV-2, VZV (HHV-3)
(2) Betaherpesviruses: CMV (HHV-5), HHV-6, HHV-7
(3) Gammaherpesviruses: EBV (HHV-4), HHV-8
What type of genetic material do herpesviruses have?
double-stranded DNA
What is the primary disease caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV)?
chickenpox and shingles
Which herpesvirus is associated with mononucleosis?
Epstein-Barr virus [EBV or HHV-4]
Further notes:
Mononucleosis, often called “mono” or the “kissing disease,” is a viral infection primarily caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It spreads through saliva, which is why it’s commonly associated with kissing, but it can also be transmitted by sharing drinks, food utensils, or through other close contact. The symptoms of mononucleosis can vary but often include: extreme fatigue, fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck and armpits, swollen tonsils, headache, skin rash…
There is no specific treatment for mono; it usually resolves on its own.
What is the common name for human herpesvirus 5 (HHV-5)?
cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Which herpesvirus is linked to Kaposi’s sarcoma?
Human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8)
Further notes:
Kaposi’s sarcoma is a type of cancer that forms in the lining of blood and lymph vessels. It causes lesions, which are abnormal tissue growths, to appear on the skin, mucous membranes, and sometimes internal organs.
Symptoms:
✓ urple, red, or brown skin lesions that may be flat or raised
✓ esions in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract, or respiratory tract
✓ Swelling and pain in the affected areas
Causes: Kaposi’s sarcoma is linked to infection with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). It primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or those on immunosuppressive drugs.
What is the structure of a herpesvirus particle?
An icosahedral capsid, tegument, and lipid envelope.
What is the term for the ability of herpesviruses to remain dormant in the body?
latency
What is the primary mode of transmission for herpesviruses?
intimate contact
What is the tegument of a herpes virus and what is its significance?
The tegument is the space between the envelope and the capsid. It contains viral proteins and enzymes that help initiate replication.
How are HSV-1 and HSV-2 transmitted?
HSV-1 is typically transmitted through oral contact, while HSV-2 is usually transmitted through sexual contact. Both require close personal contact for transmission.
What is the primary site of infection for HSV-1?
What is the primary site of infection for HSV-2?
The primary site of infection for HSV-2 is the genital or perigenital area, leading to genital herpes.