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Human T-Lymphotropic Virus (HTLV Ab)

HTLV Ab stands for Human T-lymphotropic virus Antibody. HTLV is a type of virus that infects T cells, a type of white blood cell that plays a key role in the immune system. There are two main types of HTLV, HTLV-1 and HTLV-2. HTLV-1 is the more common type and is mainly found in certain parts of the world, including Japan, the Caribbean, South America, and sub-Saharan Africa. It is mainly spread through breastfeeding from mother to child, through sexual contact, and through sharing of needles or other injection drug use equipment. HTLV-2 is less common and is mainly found in certain populations in the United States, Europe, and some parts of Africa. It is also spread through sharing of needles or other injection drug use equipment and through sexual contact. HTLV infection can lead to several health problems, including a type of cancer called adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, a neurological condition called HTLV-associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis, and other autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. There is no specific treatment for HTLV infection, but treatment of associated diseases may be necessary. Prevention measures for HTLV infection include avoiding sharing needles or other injection drug use equipment, practicing safe sex, and avoiding breastfeeding if a person is known to be infected with HTLV.

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