LCM

Introduction. 

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) is caused by an Arenavirus, the only virus in this family to infect the CNS. Virions contain ribosomes (Arena = sandy appearance) which serve no function. Reservoirs are hamsters and house mice.

Summary

• Cause: LCM Arenavirus
• Microscopy: enveloped filamentous ssRNA virus
• Symptoms: fever, myalgia, flu-like
• Transmission: inhalation, food
• Complications: 10% cases progress to meningitis; congential defects/hydrocephalus
• Pathogenesis: immunopathogenesis
• Treatment: none

References/Links

1. https://www.cdc.gov/vhf/lcm/index.html
2. https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/248356/view