Les infections à herpèsvirus humain 6 (HHV-6) : un vaste domaine encore à explorer

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is a beta-herpesvirus closely related to human cytomegalovirus and human herpesvirus 7. It infects a wide range of cells in vivo, including CD4-positive T lymphocytes and central nervous system cells. HHV-6 infection is widespread among the general population. HHV-6 is the causative agent of exanthema subitum (or roseola infantum). It is also responsible for opportunistic infections in immunocompromised patients. Its causative role in chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis is still debated. The viral diagnosis of HHV-6 infection is performed mainly by means of polymerase chain reaction. Treatment with anti-cytomegalovirus drugs is given in the most serious forms of HHV-6 infection. Due to numerous pending questions, investigations on HHV-6 must be promoted in the future.