HTLV (Human T-cell Leukemia Virus) is a type of retrovirus that can cause a type of cancer called adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL). There are two types of HTLV: HTLV-I and HTLV-II. HTLV-I is the most common and is found mainly in Japan, the Caribbean, South America, and parts of Africa. HTLV-II is less common and is found mainly in Native American populations in the United States and Canada. Both types of HTLV can be spread through sexual contact, sharing needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

HTLV Type I:

-Persistent fatigue
-Muscle weakness
-Joint pain
-Skin rashes
-Headaches
-Fever
-Weight loss
-Swollen lymph nodes
-Night sweats
-Abnormal blood cell counts

HTLV Type II:

-Persistent fatigue
-Muscle weakness
-Joint pain
-Headaches
-Fever
-Weight loss
-Swollen lymph nodes
-Night sweats
-Abnormal blood cell counts
-Paralysis
-Spinal cord inflammation
-Neurological problems
-Lymphoma

HTLV Type I and Type II are caused by two different viruses, both of which are members of the human T-lymphotropic virus (HTLV) family. HTLV Type I is caused by the Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) and HTLV Type II is caused by the Human T-lymphotropic virus type 2 (HTLV-2). Both viruses are transmitted through sexual contact, sharing of contaminated needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.

There is currently no cure for either type of HTLV (Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus). Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Treatment may include medications to reduce inflammation, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol. In some cases, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be used to treat certain types of cancer that can develop as a result of HTLV infection.

Risk factors for HTLV Type I and Type II include:

• Having unprotected sex with an infected partner
• Sharing needles or syringes with an infected person
• Receiving a blood transfusion or organ transplant from an infected donor
• Being born to an infected mother
• Living in or traveling to an area where the virus is common
• Receiving a tattoo or body piercing with unsterilized equipment
• Sharing personal items such as razors or toothbrushes with an infected person.

There is currently no cure for either type of Human T-cell Leukemia Virus (HTLV). However, medications can be used to manage the symptoms of the virus. These medications include antiviral drugs, immunosuppressants, and chemotherapy. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly can help to reduce the risk of developing complications from the virus.