The impact of amyloidosis on human health.

Describe amyloidosis.

A protein called amyloid accumulates in the body and damages different organs in a rare condition known as amyloidosis. These amyloids accumulate in multiple body organs. It may cause the organs to malfunction. The heart, kidneys, liver, spleen, neurological system, and digestive tract are among the organs that could be impacted.

Certain forms of amyloidosis coexist with other illnesses. When the other diseases are treated, these kinds might become better. Life-threatening organ failure can result from some forms of amyloidosis.

Amyloidosis may affect organs

Let’s explore the different types of amyloidosis and their underlying causes:

What causes amyloidosis?

Immunoglobulin Light Chain Amyloidosis, or AL Amyloidosis:

This type, also known as primary amyloidosis, involves abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow producing monoclonal immunoglobulin light chains.
Cause: It occurs when there’s an abnormal production of antibodies (immunoglobulins) from the bone marrow. These antibodies cannot be broken down properly, leading to their deposition in tissues and organs.
AL amyloidosis is sometimes linked to multiple myeloma, a type of bone marrow cancer.
Biochemical Nature: The amyloid fibrils are made up of these light chain proteins (kappa or lambda).
Symptoms: AL amyloidosis can affect any organ—heart failure, kidney issues, neuropathy, and even an enlarged tongue.

AA Amyloidosis (Amyloid A Protein):

Cause: Prolonged inflammation is the main factor linked to AA amyloidosis. It can develop due to diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or infectious diseases such as tuberculosis (TB).
Mechanism: A particular protein (serum amyloid A) is produced in response to inflammatory processes, and this protein subsequently forms amyloid deposits in different organs.
Elevate an acute phase protein called SAA, which then deposits as amyloid fibrils.
Affected Organs: Usually starts in the kidneys but can impact other organs.
Management: Treating the underlying infection or inflammatory disease can slow down or halt its progression.

ATTR Amyloidosis (Transthyretin-Related Amyloidosis):

Genetic Twist: ATTR amyloidosis is often inherited. It’s caused by mutations in the transthyretin (TTR) gene.
Protein: Abnormal TTR proteins deposit as amyloid fibrils.
Symptoms: Typically involves neuropathy and cardiomyopathy, showing up in mid to late life.

Hereditary ATTR Amyloidosis (Transthyretin-Related Amyloidosis):

Cause: This type of amyloidosis is inherited genetically. Mutations in the transthyretin (TTR) gene lead to unstable TTR proteins that are more likely to form amyloid fibrils.

Age-Related Variant (Wild-Type ATTR):

Wild-type ATTR amyloidosis typically develops as individuals age, often affecting men over 75 years old. Various mutations cause this type.

Wild-Type ATTR (ATTRwt):

Unmutated TTR protein often causes cardiomyopathy in older men.

Beta-2 Microglobulin Amyloidosis:

Cause: Beta-2 microglobulin amyloidosis occurs in people who undergo long-term dialysis. Proteins in the blood accumulate and deposit in joints and tendons.

Risk Factors:

Age: Amyloidosis is commonly diagnosed among people aged 60 to 70 years.
Gender: It’s more prevalent in men.
Chronic Inflammatory or Infectious Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and chronic infections increase the risk.

What are the symptoms of amyloidosis?

Common Symptoms of Amyloidosis:

Feeling very tired or weak: Amyloid deposits can affect overall energy levels.
Unintentional weight loss: If you’re losing weight without trying, it could be a sign.
Shortness of breath: Amyloidosis can impact lung function.
Swollen feet or legs: Fluid buildup due to impaired organ function.
Bruising around your eyes: Sometimes called “raccoon eyes,” this occurs due to fragile blood vessels.

Organ-Specific Symptoms:

Heart Involvement: Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) or chest pain.
Digestive System Involvement: Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation.
Kidney Involvement: Frothy urine (due to protein leakage).
Nerve Involvement: Pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands and feet.

Other Possible Symptoms:

Enlarged tongue.Thickening or purplish patches on the skin.

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing amyloidosis can be challenging because symptoms overlap with other conditions.

However, doctors typically use the following tests:

Blood and urine tests
Electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram, or MRI scans to assess organ function
Biopsy (removing a small sample of tissue for amyloid testing)
SAP scan (to visualize amyloid deposits)
Genetic testing for hereditary forms.

Amyloidosis treatment

The video explains the current treatment.

The treatment options

AL Amyloidosis (Immunoglobulin Light Chain Amyloidosis):
High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant: This approach aims to remove the abnormal plasma cells that produce amyloid. An autologous blood stem cell transplant (ASCT) may be performed.
Targeted Therapies: Medications like proteasome inhibitors (e.g., bortezomib) can help control the underlying plasma cell disorder.

AA Amyloidosis (Amyloid A Protein):

Control the Underlying Disorder: Since AA amyloidosis is associated with chronic inflammatory conditions (such as rheumatoid arthritis or Crohn’s disease), managing the underlying disease is crucial.
Steroids (Anti-Inflammatory Medications): These help reduce inflammation and prevent further amyloid deposition.

Also, read https://www.isaamyloidosis.org/.

Hereditary ATTR Amyloidosis (Transthyretin-Related Amyloidosis):

Liver Transplantation: In hereditary ATTR amyloidosis, the abnormal protein is produced in the liver. A liver transplant may be considered.
Tafamidis: This medication stabilizes transthyretin (TTR) and slows disease progression.

Wild-Type ATTR Amyloidosis:

Supportive Care: Managing symptoms and maintaining overall health are essential. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are crucial.

Beta-2 Microglobulin Amyloidosis:

Dialysis Optimization: For individuals on long-term dialysis, optimizing dialysis procedures can help reduce amyloid deposition.

General Measures:

Balanced Diet: Eating nutritious meals supports overall well-being.
Limit Alcohol Intake: Excessive alcohol can worsen symptoms.
Exercise: Regular physical activity promotes better health.
Monitoring and Follow-Up:
Regular check-ups with specialists (such as oncologists or nephrologists) are essential.
Monitoring organ function and adjusting treatment as needed.

Amyloidosis is like a collection of proteins. They gather in hushed whispers, forming abnormal deposits called amyloid. These clandestine gatherings occur in various organs—heart, kidneys, liver, nerves, and even the digestive system. But there’s no cure for these protein squatters. Instead, we focus on managing their unruly behavior.

The Culprits:

AL Amyloidosis (Immunoglobulin Light Chain Amyloidosis):

Bone marrow is sometimes linked to multiple myeloma.

AA Amyloidosis (Secondary Amyloidosis):

Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or chronic inflammation such as rheumatoid arthritis establish the foundation.

Hereditary ATTR Amyloidosis:

A genetic inheritance—like a family heirloom you didn’t want.

Wild-Type ATTR Amyloidosis:

Develops with age, often affecting older gentlemen.

Beta-2 Microglobulin Amyloidosis:

Reserved for dialysis patients—those long-term dialysis sessions lead to protein deposits.

Detective Work (Diagnosis):

Blood tests, urine tests, and heart scans—our investigative tools.

Biopsy: A tiny tissue sample reveals the amyloid’s secrets.

SAP scan: Unveils where the protein has spread.

Genetic testing: To check if it’s a family affair.

Treatment:

No cure, but we walk with symptoms:
Underlying Conditions: If amyloidosis is due to another health issue (like rheumatoid arthritis), treating that helps.
Specific Treatments: Varies by type—chemotherapy, medications, and sometimes organ or stem cell transplants.

What are the other treatment options for AL amyloidosis?

Let’s explore the treatment options for AL amyloidosis, which is a rare condition characterized by abnormal protein deposits (amyloid) affecting various organs. Managing AL amyloidosis

involves a combination of approaches to improve quality of life, relieve symptoms, and sustain organ function.

Here are the key treatment strategies:

DaraCyBorD: (Daratumumab, Cyclophosphamide, Bortezomib, and Dexamethasone):

Recent Breakthrough: Up to 600 people each year in the UK now benefit from DaraCyBorD, the very first treatment approved for AL amyloidosis on the NHS. This approval followed a U-turn by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) after initially rejecting it.

Effectiveness: Clinical trials have shown that DaraCyBorD is effective, with patients being five times more likely to see their disease halted. Approximately 59% of patients who received DaraCyBorD had no sign of AL amyloidosis 20 months after treatment.

Components: DaraCyBorD combines daratumumab (Darzalex®) with cyclophosphamide, bortezomib (Velcade®), and dexamethasone. All four drugs are already individually available on the NHS.

Game-Changer: This treatment has the potential to significantly impact patients’ quality of life and remission times.

Supportive Therapy:

Diuretic Therapy: The mainstay of supportive treatment aims to manage fluid retention (edema) by using diuretics.

Symptom Relief: Supportive measures focus on improving symptoms and sustaining organ function while anti-plasma cell therapy takes effect.

Other Approaches:

Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy remains a crucial component of AL amyloidosis treatment. It aims to control the underlying plasma cell disorder responsible for amyloid production.

Stem Cell Transplant: Some patients may benefit from peripheral blood stem cell transplantation.

Organ Transplant: Depending on the affected organs, patients with various types of amyloidosis (including AL) may be considered for organ transplants (e.g., heart, liver, or kidney transplants).

Advocacy and Persistence:

The approval of DaraCyBorD is a significant achievement, but it highlights the importance of advocacy efforts. Patients, clinicians, and organizations like Myeloma UK played a crucial role in fighting for access to this life-extending treatment.

While celebrating this victory, we must also recognize that timely access to effective treatments remains essential for all patients, regardless of where they live.

Conclusion

Finding an amyloid treatment center with an experienced team and properly qualified specialists is crucial because amyloidosis is rare. This dangerous illness can become chronic or life-threatening. AL amyloidosis patients are living longer because of improved treatments. Ask your doctor about AL amyloidosis clinical trials and new treatment studies.

An Amblyopia eye needs prompt treatment.

Overview

An amblyopia eye, also known as a lazy eye, is a condition where the brain and eye don't work together properly, resulting in poor vision in one or both eyes. It's one of the most common causes of vision loss in children, affecting up to 3 out of every 100 children.

What is amblyopia?

Amblyopia is an eye setting that results in lesser vision in one of the eyes.
Because of decreased reciprocity linking the eye and the brain.
It can be due to an eye ailment like a large spectacle number or strabismus ( squint)
It is generally distinguished by a reduction in vision.
This cannot be rectified by glasses or contact lenses.

Lazy eye

Lazy eye is another term for this condition.
The brain prefers the other eye (the healthy eye) to function normally, so even though the eye looks normal, it is not being used normally.
An estimated 3% of kids are predicted to grow up with lazy eyes.
This condition, which causes the child to rely more on the "good" eye and see less clearly out of one, is typically diagnosed in children around the age of four.

Causes of Amblyopia

Amblyopia is the result of impaired visual growth at the young age of a few individual lives.
It usually happens before the age of eight.
Premature babies or those with low birth weight have a higher risk of coming into this condition.
An amblyopia eye cannot fully acknowledge the images seen.
Reduced light entering the eye, a lack of focus, or confusion between the eyes—where the two images are different, like in a squint, a condition where the eyes do not look in the same direction—can all be the cause of this.

Our eyes function much like a camera.

The retina is a light-sensitive tissue layer that receives an image focused from each eye's lens.
The image is converted by the retina into nerve impulses that are transmitted to the brain.
The signals from each eye are then combined by the brain to create a three-dimensional image.
All types of amblyopia ultimately lead to decreased vision in the afflicted eye.
Vision loss results from the incorrect stimulation of nerve pathways between the brain and the eye if treatment is not received.

Symptoms of Amblyopia (Lazy Eye)

Usually, amblyopia, also known as lazy eye, has no symptoms.
Younger kids frequently do not realize they have a visual impairment.
Even if they are, they typically do not explain their condition, in contrast to older kids who might express their worries about having trouble seeing well with one eye.
In some circumstances, the appearance of one eye may differ from the other.
However, strabismus (squint), a condition where the eyes don't look in the same direction, usually precedes this symptom.
The condition known as strabismus occurs when the eyes do not look in the same direction.

Amblyopia Types:

Different types of amblyopia

People typically experience one of three forms of amblyopia:

The Amblyopia Strabismic:

Strabismic amblyopia is the term for the condition where the eyes turn in, out, up, or down when they are not straight.
This causes the brain to "turn off," or ignore, the non-straight eye, which makes it harder for that eye to see.

Deprivation Amblyopia:

When cataracts or other similar conditions "deprive" young children's eyes of visual experience, deprivation amblyopia results.
These kids never learn to see well and may experience poor vision if they are not treated at a young age.
On rare occasions, this kind of amblyopia may affect both eyes.

The Refractive Amblyopia:

A considerable or uneven amount of refractive error in a child's eyes results in refractive amblyopia.
The eye that needs fewer glasses in these circumstances teaches the brain to see well, while the eye that needs more does not teach the brain to see well.
Since the child does not complain of blurred vision as long as the correct eye is compensating for the amblyopic eye's lack of vision, the vision issue may be difficult to diagnose.

Additional appearances

Additionally, the appearance of the amblyopia-affected eye may not differ significantly from that of the normal eye.
Therefore, because the child's eyes seem normal, parents and doctors might not suspect that something might be wrong.
Because of these factors, a child's vision test might be required to detect this kind of amblyopia.
The best way to treat refractive amblyopia is to detect it early. It can affect one or both eyes.

Diagnosis

The video refers to amblyopia

To check for eye health issues, a wandering eye, vision differences, or poor vision in both eyes, schedule an eye exam with the best ophthalmologist.
There are several methods to test your child's vision, depending on their age and developmental stage:
A lighted magnifying device can be used to detect cataracts in preverbal children, and other tests can evaluate the ability of a baby or toddler to fix his or her gaze and follow a moving object.
Tests that use letters or pictures can evaluate vision in children three years of age and up.

Treatment

Also, read https://rauteyecare.com/amblyopia-treatment-for-adults-in-india-e2.

To benefit from the growing brain-eye connections, amblyopia must be treated as soon as possible, preferably before the age of seven. Treatment can still be successful despite this.

Older children. Treatment options for amblyopia vary depending on the cause and severity of vision impairment.

Corrective eyewear: Glasses or contact lenses can be used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, which is a factor in lazy eye.

Eye patches:

*Your child supports the weaker eye by wearing an eye patch over the better-visioned eye for two to six hours every day.

*Long-term patch use can occasionally result in amblyopia in the patched eye, though this condition is usually treatable.

*The stronger eye's lens is treated with a Bangerter filter. The filter blurs the stronger eye while stimulating the weaker eye, much like an eye patch.

Eyedrops: In the stronger eye, atropine (Isopto Atropine) eyedrops can momentarily impair vision.

These drops, which are usually prescribed for use on the weekends or every day, provide an alternative to eye patches and encourage your child to rely on the weaker eye. Light sensitivity and eye irritation are possible side effects.

Surgery: If your child suffers from deprivation amblyopia due to cataracts or drooping eyelids, you may require surgery.

Along with other lazy eye treatments, surgical repair may be suggested if your child's eyes continue to cross or drift apart despite wearing the proper glasses.

Conclusion

A child with amblyopia, commonly referred to as lazy eye, may experience severe visual problems if treatment is not received. Early detection and treatment are essential for preventing long-term vision loss. If you believe your child may have amblyopia, see an ophthalmologist. Children with amblyopia can significantly improve their vision with the correct care.

Note:

Raut Eye Care

Orthoptek: a revolutionary, game-changing treatment for amblyopia

Orthoptek is used to treat both adult and pediatric amblyopia.

Even in adults, Orthoptek is a ground-breaking new treatment for amblyopia.

It employs the top-down method and flashes LED lights in front of the eye to activate the brain's vision centers.

This therapy stimulates the brain regions in charge of vision development, eye alignment, and three-dimensional vision, which helps to resolve these problems.

Only at RAUT EYE CARE / PUNE is this treatment offered.

How to cure ankylosing spondylitis?

Synopsis:

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an epidemic known as axial spondyloarthritis.

It involves chronic inflammation of the joints in the spine, especially where the spine joins the pelvis. The vertebrae may eventually fuse as a result, reducing spinal flexibility and potentially leading to a hunched posture. Breathing deeply can become challenging if the ribs suffer damage.

Ankylosing spondylitis

What Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Feel Like?

Although ankylosing spondylitis (AS) can be strenuous, let us analyze how it feels:

Stiffness and Back Pain:

The primary symptom is imagining waking up with your spine bucking every effort to straighten. In the morning or after periods of inactivity, it is frequently worse.

Physical activity is likely to ease the pain, but rest never gives relief.

Other Areas of Joints Also Involved:

AS is not affecting the spine alone.

Heel, hip, and butt pain are also affected.

The pain also extends to the shoulder and small joints.

Inflammation where tendons or ligaments connect to bones is called enthesitis.

You can find it at the top of the shin bone, behind the heel (Achilles tendon), and where the ribs meet the breastbone.

If you have entangled ribs, you may experience chest pain and find deep breaths to be a bit dramatic.

Drowsiness

Other circumstance.

Iritis: Eyes will possibly be red and swollen.

Psoriasis: Skin disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):

People who have Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis

What Causes Ankylosing Spondylitis?

There are peculiar causes for ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

A specific gene variant called HLA-B27 is closely associated with AS, even though the exact cause of the disorder is still unknown.
Age (usually develops in late adolescence or early adulthood), gender (men are more susceptible), and family history are additional risk factors.
Researchers claim that over 80% of individuals with AS are afflicted by a gene variant called human leukocyte antigen B27 (HLA-B27).
Having this gene variation does not guarantee that you will get AS. Researchers estimate that 8 out of 100 people in the general population carry the HLA-B27 gene variation, even though the majority of people do not have AS.
The aforementioned gene mutation is thought to increase the risk of developing AS. Several unidentified environmental factors could be causing the illness.
Tests for HLA-B27 should be performed if AS is suspected. This test has a low diagnostic accuracy. Some people may have the disorder and the HLA-B27 gene variant, while others may have the condition and the gene variant.

Does It Have an Autoimmune Cause?

An autoimmune condition is an ankylosing spondylitis (AS). AS is a long-term inflammatory condition that causes the immune system to attack healthy joint tissue, particularly in the pelvis and spine. The resulting stiffness, discomfort, and swelling may eventually cause the vertebrae to fuse together.

Signs and symptoms

Back pain and stiffness are among the initial symptoms, which typically appear in late adolescence or early adulthood.
The symptoms may get better, grow worse, or go away completely.
Back pain and stiffness are present, particularly in the hips and lower back.
Arthritis has caused swelling and pain in other joints.
Exhaustion.
Over time, these symptoms may appear and disappear and tend to grow gradually.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Diagnosis

The doctor will inquire about your symptoms and any relevant family history.
Your spine may feel tender, stiff, or uncomfortable during an examination.
The doctor may send you for an X-ray or an MRI.
Both tests can identify damage to the bones and soft tissues of your spine.
An MRI can detect damage early in the course of the illness and provides more detailed images than an X-ray.

Additional Diagnosis

An additional diagnostic technique is a blood test that searches for the HLA-B27 gene.
Ankylosing spondylitis may be suspected or diagnosed by your primary care physician at first.
A rheumatologist may then be recommended for you. This kind of physician focuses on conditions affecting the muscles, joints, and bones.
A rheumatologist may be your first choice for treatment. If you experience symptoms like uveitis, which is swelling of the central layer of the eye, you might also need to see an ophthalmologist or physical therapist.

Ankylosing spondylitis duration

You should begin to feel better after beginning treatment. It's possible that your symptoms will not entirely go away and could develop gradually. However, your symptoms should improve once you find treatments that are effective for you. To learn about any improvements, speak with your provider. Medication will take longer to work, and treatment and physical activity are lengthy procedures.

The Variations in Symphony:

Stiffness and Back Pain: The Spine's Overture. It starts as a gentle hum and then intensifies into a full-fledged pain.

Enthesitis: Pain and edema may result from the coordinated movement of bones and tendons.

Fatigue: will be severe after a few hours

Treatment

The video explains the treatment for ankylosing spondylitis.

Physiotherapy and Exercise:

Group Exercise
Personal Training:
Hydrotherapy
Pain management drugs:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs.

These effective medications lessen discomfort and inflammation.

Consider: diclofenac, naproxen, and ibuprofen.

Paracetamol:

Codeine: For tough circumstances, but be mindful of side effects like tiredness and constipation.

Biological Therapies: AS Meets Contemporary Healthcare

Drugs that block the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) are available. Inflammation is the focus of these.

IL-17 Inhibitors: Secukinumab calms the immune system's frantic movements.

Advanced Moves: Corticosteroids for Advanced AS:

Traditional DMARDs, or disease-modifying antirheumatic medications, slow down AS's plot twists.
JAK Inhibitors and Biologics:
Surgery: Occasionally, joints require replacement or repair.

Complications of Ankylosing Spondylitis

Reduced Flexibility and Spinal Fusion:
It is gradually fusing its vertebrae.
Limited movement. Your once-bendy back now prefers a stoic posture.
In rare cases, surgery might be the plot twist—straightening out severe bends in the spine.

Also, read https://bodytonicclinic.co.uk/ankylosing-spondylitis-and-axial-spondyloarthritis/.

Joint Damage:

AS isn’t content with just the spine; it affects the hips and knees.
These joints swell up, ache, and become stiff.
If a joint gets too damaged, it might need an upgrade—cue the artificial joint surgery.

Iritis (Acute Anterior Uveitis):

Occasionally, AS takes on the role of an eye-troubler.
Symptoms: Redness, pain, sensitivity to light (photophobia), and blurred vision.
You need to take immediate action! If you suspect iritis, rush to an ophthalmologist—they’ll whip out the corticosteroid eyedrops.

Osteoporosis and Spinal Fractures:

Osteoporosis: Your bones go from sturdy bricks to fragile crackers.

Cardiovascular

AS affects not only joints but also your heart and blood vessels.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)—consider heart disease and strokes.

Your rheumatologist will advise lifestyle changes:

Quit smoking, eat heart-healthy, and dance to your favorite beats.

Yoga exercises are suggested.

Yoga can help with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) by improving flexibility, reducing pain and stiffness, and managing stress and anxiety. Do not do yoga on your own.

The following asanas are good for AS

Child's pose:

Bridge pose:

Downward-facing dog:

Cobra pose:

Locust pose:

Mountain pose:

Cat pose:

Cow pose:

Staff pose:

Supta Matsyendrasana

The Spondylitis Association of America recommends that people with AS do stretching and range-of-motion exercises, like yoga, every day. Other types of exercise that can help with AS include cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and balance exercises.

What’s the Best Diet for People With Ankylosing Spondylitis?

This is the culinary conundrum of ankylosing spondylitis (AS)!

1. The Mediterranean Diet:

Olive Oil: Fruits and vegetables are a vibrant source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Whole Grains: Think quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread.

Lean Proteins: Fish (hello, omega-3s!), chicken, and legumes.

Red Wine: In moderation, of course. It’s like the smooth jazz in the background.

2. The Paleo Diet:

Meat and Fish:

Veggies and Fruits:

Nuts and Seeds:

No Grains or Dairy:.

3. The Low-Starch Diet:

What to Avoid?

Potatoes: Breads and Pastas: Rice: It’s the undercover agent.

4. The Gluten-Free Diet:

For some individuals, gluten can be quite disruptive.

If you suspect it’s causing a ruckus, kick it out.

Wheat, Rye, and Barley: They’re gluten-free.

Gluten-Containing Foods: Say goodbye to regular pizza crust and bagels.

5. The Keto Diet:

It’s like a low-carb, high-fat food.

Conclusion

Management of any AS is difficult. Having ankylosing spondylitis hurts your back. AS is tolerable, but pain, stiffness, and other symptoms can lower energy.

Health professionals will assist you in finding treatments that reduce the daily impact of AS symptoms.

How to Avoid Marburg Disease from Bleeding Eye Virus

Overview

Marburg virus disease (MVD) is a rare but dangerous illness that can cause bleeding, organ failure, and even death. The Marburg virus (MARV), a member of the filovirus family that also includes Ebola, is the cause of the illness.

Doctors Offer Advice on How to Avoid Getting Marburg Disease from Bleeding Eye Virus

The following are some MVD facts to be aware of:

Transmission

Direct contact with an infected person or animal's blood or body fluids can spread MVD, as can indirect contact with contaminated objects or surfaces. Neither airborne nor communicable before symptoms appear. The Ravn virus (RAVV) and the Marburg virus (MARV) cause the rare but occasionally fatal disease known as the Marburg virus.

How does Marburg's illness occur?

Rousettus aegyptiacus bird bat

Rousettus aegyptiacus, a fruit bat belonging to the Pteropodidae family, is believed to be the natural host of the Marburg virus. Human-to-human transmission of the Marburg virus occurs when fruit bats infect humans. To effectively control outbreaks, community engagement is essential.

Does the Marburg virus have a vaccine or treatment?

Marburg virus disease (MVD) has no licensed vaccines or antiviral therapies. Early intensive supportive care, however, can increase survival. The death rate from this illness can reach 88%. Sabin intends to provide more vaccines pending a request from Rwandan authorities and BARDA approval.

Survival rates can be raised with early supportive treatment.

Drinking enough water: To combat dehydration, rehydrate and replenish electrolytes.
Levels of oxygen: Keeping oxygen levels constant
Blood and its derivatives: Replacing blood products and lost blood
Anticoagulants: Use anticoagulants early in an infection to prevent disseminated intravascular coagulation.
Procoagulants: Give procoagulants late in an infection to reduce bleeding.
Antifungals or antibiotics: Treating secondary infections with antibiotics or antifungals

Avoidance

Avoid coming into close contact with patients, their bodily fluids, and any potentially contaminated materials to prevent MVD. Medical personnel should dress in gowns, goggles, gloves, and disposable face masks.

What would happen if Marburg appeared?

MVD is a sudden illness that manifests as severe headache, high fever, and extreme malaise. Muscle soreness and aches are common. Severe watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting may begin on the third day.

Which nation is the source of Marburg disease?

The first MVD outbreak happened in 1967 in Marburg, Germany. Since then, outbreaks have been documented in Tanzania, Ghana, and Rwanda, among other African countries.

Between February and June 2023, the most recent outbreaks were documented in the United Republic of Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea. MVD epidemics have previously occurred in many African countries, including Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda.

Is it possible for the Marburg virus to survive?

Marburg usually means death, but there have been survivors.

How can the Marburg virus be prevented?

Steer clear of anything contaminated with blood or bodily fluids, including bedding and needles. If you are employed in the healthcare industry, adhere to strict infection control protocols. Using personal protective equipment (gloves, gowns, masks, and goggles) and keeping impacted individuals apart is necessary for this.
It is important to avoid contact with infected people and bats. You can utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to strict infection control protocols in healthcare environments.

Also, read https://www.civilsdaily.com/news/marburg-virus-outbreak-in-rwanda/

How is the Marburg virus disinfected?

For cleaning, use soap and water; for disinfection, use chlorine. This suggests that if you use soap and water first, chlorine can perform its function efficiently. Starting with the cleanest region, cleaning should go to the dirtiest.

Pain control: Handling pain

A Guide to Marburg Virus Disease for Clinicians | NETEC

In a hospital intensive care unit, supportive care works best.

The video warns of the deadly Marburg virus.

To treat MVD, the following drugs are being developed:

Monoclonal antibodies, or mAbs
Antibiotic medications
Possible immunizations
Immunotherapy
Oligomers of phosphorodiamidate morpholino
Enveloped short-interfering RNAs in lipids
Inhibitors of small molecules
Interferons
Analogs of antiviral nucleosides

Making a diagnosis

Marburg virus disease (MVD) diagnostic tests consist of a mix of the following:
The antibody-capture enzyme-linked immunosorbent test (ELISA) can detect IgM antibodies. This means that the infection happened not long ago.
The reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test is used to diagnose MVD.
Electron microscopy: the gold standard for diagnosis, which entails finding distinctive virions in blood or tissue that have been infected.
Histological techniques: A delicate method, particularly for diagnosis after death
The physician may also perform a urinalysis, liver and coagulation tests, standard blood chemistries, and a complete blood count.

How MVD spread to others

Distinguishing MVD from other infectious diseases like typhoid fever, malaria, Ebola, and shigellosis may be difficult.
MVD patients typically become ill 2–21 days after exposure. Although there isn't a single cure or therapy for MVD, medical professionals can treat problems and manage symptoms.
Close contact with an infected person's or animal's bodily fluids can spread the Marburg virus.
Human-to-human
Direct contact with human milk, blood, urine, vomit, excrement, saliva, semen, or vaginal secretions can cause this. Broken skin or mucous membranes may cause this.

Interaction with polluted surfaces

Contact with objects or surfaces tainted by an infected person's bodily fluids can spread the disease.
Interaction with deceased individuals
Making direct contact with a deceased person's body during funeral rites accomplishes this.
Interaction with primates that are not human
Handling infected non-human primates or contacting their bodily fluids can cause this.
exposure in a laboratory
Working with the live Marburg virus in a lab allowed for this accomplishment.

Caution

The Marburg virus cannot be spread by air.
As long as the virus is present in their blood, people can spread the illness even before they start showing symptoms. Symptoms typically appear 9 days after exposure, with an incubation period ranging from 2 to 21 days.
The disease caused by the Marburg virus is extremely contagious and dangerous. Without treatment, up to 90% of virus-infected individuals will pass away.

Rate of death

Although the death rate from Marburg virus disease (MVD) typically hovers around 50%, it can vary from 24% to 88% depending on the epidemic:
According to our estimations, the MVD case fatality rate in 2023 was 61.9%, or 3.50 percent.

Early care: Two early supportive care strategies that can improve survival are symptomatic therapy and rehydration.

Fruit bats can transmit MVD, a serious and frequently lethal disease, to people. It is distinguished by:

The condition is known as bleeding eye syndrome.

Extreme hemorrhagic illness

Flu-like symptoms that worsen and lead to neurological problems, severe vomiting, and bleeding

Extreme drowsiness, deep-set eyes, an expressionless visage, and "ghost-like" sketched features

There are numerous drug treatments and vaccinations under development.

MVD risk factors include:

Using animals that are capable of carrying it
Operating within caves, mines, or other fruit bat habitats
Having intimate touch with or providing care for an affected individual
The African nations that have the Marburg virus include Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Marburg virus: Information about outbreaks and the illness...
In the arid forests of equatorial Africa, the virus is endemic. The virus most frequently infects people who visit caves or work in mines where Egyptian fruit bats reside.

Can Marburg be cured?

Although rare, both diseases have the potential to cause deadly epidemics, and there is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for Marburg hemorrhagic fever, a serious and frequently fatal illness caused by a virus that is related to the same family as the virus that causes Ebola hemorrhagic fever.

Doctors Offer Advice on How to Avoid Getting Marburg Disease from Bleeding Eye Virus

Medical professionals said that people in India want to know how to prevent the fatal Marburg sickness, as reports from the US and the UK have raised anxiety over the bleeding-eye virus's spread.

The UK media reports on the "Bleeding Eye" Virus Outbreak, advising travelers to exercise extra caution due to the spread of the Marburg, Mpox, and Oropouche viruses in 17 nations. The "bleeding eye" virus, so named because of one of its symptoms, is the most deadly of them. Known as the Marburg virus disease, it has claimed the lives of 15 people in Rwanda and is believed to have infected hundreds more.

The Marburg virus sickness is feared to be one of the most deadly illnesses on the planet, with a 50/50 risk of fatality. The virus could spread to other African countries already experiencing outbreaks worldwide.

In India

India has not reported any cases of the Marburg, Mpox, or Oropouche viruses. The public is afraid of such a scenario, nevertheless, as most people remember the COVID-19 outbreak and the significant damages it caused as it swept over the world.

Typical Measures to Stop the Bleeding Eye Virus from Spreading

To find out how to stop the bleeding eye virus from spreading throughout India, ABP Live met with Dr. Rohit Kumar Garg, Senior Consultant, Infectious Diseases, Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, and Dr. Aklesh Tandekar, Head Consultant, Critical Care, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, Mumbai.

They offered the following advice:
Practice excellent hand hygiene by regularly washing your hands with soap and water.
Steer clear of touching your lips, nose, or eyes, especially in busy places.
Clean shared items and frequently touched surfaces.
When near an infected person or during an outbreak, wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, and gowns. Steer clear of sick people and their bodily fluids, such as blood, sweat, and saliva.
Steer clear of handling or consuming undercooked meat.
Activities If you have the infection or have come into contact with someone who has, isolate yourself to prevent the infection from spreading.
If symptoms appear or if you suspect exposure, seek medical attention immediately for confirmation and advice.
Don't share personal stuff like glasses or towels or touch your face.
To clean and properly dispose of eye discharge, use disposable tissues.
If exposure is detected, notify contacts so that prompt actions can be taken.
Observe the treatment and care instructions provided by your healthcare practitioner.

Conclusion

Marburg virus spreads through close contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person or animal.

It is a serious and very contagious disease. Up to 9 out of 10 people infected with the virus will die without treatment. In India, people want to know how to prevent the fatal Marburg sickness. Always consult your GP whenever you come across any symptoms in the body.