Diseases
Echovirus
ECHO viruses predominantly cause asymptomatic infections, with neutralizing antibodies being formed. The virus replicates in the intestinal tract and can then enter the bloodstream via the draining lymphatic vessels, leading to a cyclic infection with viremia and spreading to target organs.
General Information and Spectrum of Diseases
Echoviruses are RNA viruses from the Picornaviridae family that can cause a wide spectrum of diseases. They can affect various organs, including the digestive tract, meninges, central nervous system (CNS), myocardium, pericardium, skeletal muscles, respiratory tract, and skin. Most Echovirus infections are associated with CNS infections, with aseptic meningitis being prominent. Echovirus infections can also cause myocarditis, pericarditis, gastroenteritis, and respiratory tract diseases.
The Echovirus is the causative agent of several diseases:
Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord): Causes neck stiffness, fever, headache, and sensitivity to light.
Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle): Can lead to arrhythmias and heart failure.
Pericarditis (inflammation of the pericardium): Causes chest pain, fever, and shortness of breath.
Meningoencephalitis: Causes headache, fever, confusion, and neurological symptoms.
Gastrointestinal diseases: Leads to diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Aseptic Meningitis: Causes fever, headache, sensitivity to light, and neck stiffness.
