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obsolete Poxviridae infectious disease

Description

Smallpox: A Devastating Infectious Disease

Smallpox, caused by the variola virus (genus Orthopoxvirus), was a highly contagious and sometimes fatal infectious disease that affected humans. It is considered one of the most devastating diseases in human history [4][10].

Characteristics of Smallpox

The smallpox illness was characterized by three phases: incubation, prodrome, and rash [7]. The incubation period lasted from 10 to 14 days, during which the individual showed constitutional symptoms such as fever, headache, myalgia, malaise, vomiting, and lymphadenopathy [5].

Symptoms of Smallpox

The disease was marked by a distinctive rash that progressed through several stages. The rash began as flat red spots on the skin, which eventually developed into pus-filled blisters. These blisters would then crust over and fall off, leaving behind scars [4][10].

Impact of Smallpox

Smallpox was responsible for an estimated 300-500 million deaths in the 20th century alone [1]. The disease was eradicated in 1980 through a global vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization (WHO) [13].

Other Obsolete Poxviridae Infectious Diseases

In addition to smallpox, other poxviruses such as cowpox and variola have also been associated with human infections. These diseases were often characterized by skin lesions and sometimes systemic symptoms [1][2]. However, they are no longer considered major public health threats due to advances in vaccination and disease control measures.

References

[1] Poxviridae | Introduction | Small Pox | Classification and Taxonomy Other Human Viruses and Diseases ... Eradication of Small Pox and Other Viral Diseases | Useful Web Links | References | Classification and Taxonomy. [2] The poxviridae family is large and encompasses two sub-families: Entomopoxvirinae (EPV), which infect insects; and Chordopoxvirinae (ChPV), which infect vertebrates. [3] Smallpox, caused by the variola virus (genus Orthopoxvirus), was a highly contagious and sometimes fatal infectious disease that affected humans. [4] The smallpox illness was characterized by three phases: incubation, prodrome, and rash [7]. [5] The disease was marked by a distinctive rash that progressed through several stages. The rash began as flat red spots on the skin, which eventually developed into pus-filled blisters. [6] Smallpox was responsible for an estimated 300-500 million deaths in the 20th century alone [1].

Additional Characteristics

  • Smallpox
  • caused by the variola virus (genus Orthopoxvirus)
  • highly contagious and sometimes fatal infectious disease
  • affected humans
  • considered one of the most devastating diseases in human history
  • estimated 300-500 million deaths in the 20th century alone
  • eradicated in 1980 through a global vaccination campaign led by the World Health Organization (WHO)
  • responsible for an estimated 300-500 million deaths in the 20th century alone

Signs and Symptoms

Smallpox Signs and Symptoms

Smallpox, an infectious disease caused by the variola virus, was a significant public health concern until its eradication in 1980. The signs and symptoms of smallpox are worth reviewing, as they can provide valuable insights into the characteristics of this now-obsolete disease.

Initial Symptoms

The initial symptoms of smallpox typically appear within 12 to 14 days after exposure to the virus [14]. These symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Muscle aches
  • Headache
  • Chills and exhaustion

These symptoms are often referred to as the "prodomal period" [4].

Rash and Scabs

As the disease progresses, a characteristic rash develops. The rash goes through several stages, starting out flat, becoming raised (papules) and fluid-filled (vesicles), and then crusting over [13]. This process occurs over a few weeks.

Other Symptoms

In addition to the initial symptoms and rash, people with smallpox may experience:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Back pain
  • Malaise

These symptoms can vary in severity and frequency among individuals [8].

Types of Smallpox

There are several types of smallpox, including ordinary smallpox, modified-type smallpox, and others. Ordinary smallpox was the most common type and caused about 85% of cases [12]. It had a mortality rate of around 1 in 3 people.

Incubation Period

The incubation period of smallpox, which is the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms, can range from 7 to 19 days [14].

These signs and symptoms are specific to smallpox and can be used as a reference point for comparison with other diseases. However, it's essential to note that smallpox has been eradicated, and this information is primarily of historical interest.

References:

[4] by E De Clercq · 2023 · Cited by 30 [7] [8] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15]

Additional Symptoms

Diagnostic Tests

Treatment

Treatment Options for Obsolete Poxvirus Infections

While poxvirus infections such as smallpox have been eradicated, there are still some treatment options available for other members of the Poxviridae family. Here are some of the key findings:

  • Tecovirimat: Also known as ST-246, tecovirimat is a synthetic antiviral compound that has shown promise in treating orthopoxvirus infections, including smallpox and monkeypox (mpox) [2][3]. It works by inhibiting the replication of the virus.
  • Cidofovir: This is an antiviral medication that has been used to treat various viral infections, including poxvirus infections. However, its efficacy in treating mpox is still being studied [4].
  • Brincidofovir: Another antiviral medication, brincidofovir has been shown to be effective against a range of viruses, including poxviruses. It has been used to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) and adenovirus infections [7].
  • Vaccinia Immune Globulin: This is a type of antibody that can provide passive immunity against smallpox and other poxvirus infections.
  • Trifluridine: This antiviral medication has been used to treat various viral infections, including poxvirus infections.

Key Principles of Treatment

The principles of treatment for poxvirus infections include:

  • Passive immunization: Using antibodies or immune globulins to provide immediate protection against the virus.
  • Antiviral small molecule drugs: Using medications that inhibit viral replication and spread.
  • Drugs targeting systemic spread: Using medications that target the systemic spread of the virus.

Challenges in Treatment

While there are some treatment options available, there are still challenges in treating poxvirus infections. These include:

  • Limited efficacy: Some treatments may not be effective against all types of poxviruses.
  • Lack of licensure: Some medications may not be licensed for use against specific poxvirus infections.
  • Need for further research: More research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness and safety of various treatment options.

References:

[1] Poxviruses are members of the Poxviridae family that are comprised of enveloped, double-stranded DNA viruses shaped like a brick or oval form. A well-known poxvirus is variola virus − the causative agent of smallpox. [2] Tecovirimat (ST-246) has shown promise in treating orthopoxvirus infections, including smallpox and monkeypox (mpox). [3] Cidofovir has been used to treat various viral infections, including poxvirus infections. [4] Brincidofovir has been shown to be effective against a range of viruses, including poxviruses. [5] Vaccinia Immune Globulin can provide passive immunity against smallpox and other poxvirus infections. [6] Trifluridine has been used to treat various viral infections, including poxvirus infections.

Differential Diagnosis

Additional Information

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