Respiratory Syncytial Virus: From Discovery to Treatment

Abstract

To review the epidemiology, identifi cation, clinical patterns and treatment of respiratory syncytial virus infection. Raised available studies in the MEDLINE database using the keywords respiratory syncytial virus, respiratory infection, bronchiolitis and indirect immunofl uorescence in international studies since 1980. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) was fi rst time isolated in 1956 and became the most frequently agent found, especially in the lower respiratory tract of children. It is responsible for signifi cant morbidity and mortality in children younger than 18 months with risk factors such as prematurity and heart disease. It shows well-defi ned distribution along the year. Histopathology, immunohistochemistry and standardized molecular techniques to identify the virus have been described. Th e specifi c treatment of RSV infection is still limited. Antiviral agents as ribavirin showed limited eff ectiveness and restricted to use in a few patients with severe heart disease. Vaccines needs further studies before marketed. Humanized monoclonal antibody -palivizumab -is safe, well tolerated and the most cost-eff ective when used in children at risk for severe RSV infection. Th e high rate of children hospital admissions by RSV infection is a public health issue. Treatment is yet supportive and non specifi c according to severity. Epidemiologic surveillance, routine virus identifi cation and acessibility to health centers are the key points to control infection by this virus.