Chronic infections

Definition

Chronic infections are long-lasting infections where the virus persists in the host body, often causing continuous or recurring symptoms. These infections can evade the immune system and maintain a presence in the host for months to years.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chronic infections can occur when viruses integrate their genetic material into the host's genome.
2. They often involve viruses like Hepatitis B and C, HIV, and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
3. Chronic infections can lead to long-term health issues such as liver cirrhosis, cancer, or immunodeficiency.
4. These infections may be asymptomatic for extended periods before symptoms appear or reappear.
5. Antiviral treatments can manage but not always completely eradicate chronic viral infections.

Review Questions

• What mechanisms allow viruses to establish chronic infections in a host?
• Name three viruses commonly associated with chronic infections and one potential long-term health consequence of each.
• How do chronic viral infections differ from acute viral infections in terms of duration and immune response?

Related terms

Latency: A state where a virus remains dormant within a host cell and can reactivate later causing infection again

Antiviral Therapy: Treatment using drugs that inhibit the development or replication of viruses

Host Immune Evasion: Strategies used by pathogens like viruses to avoid detection and destruction by the host's immune system