Human metapneumovirus, or HMPV, is a type of respiratory virus affecting persons going through common cold-like symptoms. However, in the very old and very young or any with comorbid illnesses, complications could take a grave turn. HMPV was described in 2001 as one of the major contributors to respiratory disease globally.
This blog will quote comments on HMPV symptoms, causation, diagnosis, and the different treatment options with a stronger focus on advanced care options offered through Lung Surgery in Thane, India. HMPV-related lung surgery and other lung diseases are handled by eminent doctors like Dr Amol Bhanushali.
Symptoms of HMPV
The virus potentially affects the respiratory tracts with variable manifestations:
Mild Symptoms:
- Runny/nasal discharge or obstructed nasal passage would also be observed.
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Fever
- Fatigue
Severe Symptoms:
Among high-risk groups such as very old, young children, and adults with chronic medical illnesses such as asthma or COPD, the virus will present with:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Hypoxia
- Pneumonia or bronchiolitis
Rarely, HMPV infection is also responsible for febrile seizures in children or exacerbation of existing respiratory ailments. In more complicated instances, specialized treatments by centers such as Dr. Bhanushali Hospital and Centre for Lung Surgery, Thane, are available, and varying therapies are offered.
Causes and Risk Factors
HMPV is an RNA virus undergoing person-to-person transmission primarily by respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces. The virus attacks the epithelial cells of the respiratory tract. The process is:
- Attachment: G-proteins of HMPV target receptors on respiratory epithelial cells.
- Fusion: The F protein promotes cell entry, resulting in inflammation and mucus secretion.
Risk Factors
Groups susceptible to severe infections from the Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection include:
- Infants and children under 5 years of age.
- Adults over 65 years of age.
- Chronic lung or heart diseases
- Immunocompromised patients (cancer patients, organ transplant recipients).
Sometimes, long-term complaints have been caused by HMPV in cases of chronic allograft dysfunction of lung transplant recipients. Cases like these need regard for intervention from specialists like Dr Amol Bhanushali, who lives up to par in thoracic surgery.
Diagnosis of HMPV
Early diagnosis was noted as essential in some forms of severe case management. The possible ways of diagnosis are:
- Clinical Evaluation: The doctor’s assessments are based on the presenting symptoms and the past medical history regarding the possible risk factors for developing severe disease.
- RT-PCR Testing: Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction testing is a gold standard in proving the presence of HMPV in respiratory secretions. Multiplex panels may identify co-infections with other pathogens in parallel.
- Imaging Studies: In case of severe presentation, a chest X-ray or CT scan may be performed to check for complications such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis.
HMPV Treatment Options
As of now, there are no viral agents that have received approval for treating the HMPV; treatment options generally include alleviating symptoms and providing supportive care:-
Mild
In patients with mild cases, some examples of symptomatic treatment include:
- Acetaminophen for analgesia/antipyresis
- Decongestants for nasal congestion
- Fluids and rest
Severe
In patients with severe symptoms, hospitalization may be needed for:
- Oxygen therapy to maintain adequate oxygenation
- Intravenous fluid management for keeping the patient hydrated
- Bronchodilators and inhaled steroids to relieve airway inflammation
- Antibiotics in the event of a secondary bacterial infection
The specialized team at Dr. Bhanushali’s Center for Lung Surgery in Thane is trained to offer minimally invasive options such as Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS) for managing complex respiratory cases.
Preventive Measures
Preventive measures for HMPV infection involve maintaining basic hygiene and curtailing exposure:
- Frequent handwashing with soap and water
- Steer clear of contacts around infected persons
- Disinfection of high-contact surfaces such as doorknobs and cell phones
- Immunity boost from a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep
Advanced Care Options Towards Thane
Advanced care options are crucially required for individuals with severe complications arising from HMPV or respiratory conditions. Dr. Bhanushali Hospital and Centre for Lung Surgery, Thane, has made provisions for the best treatment options:
- Video Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery (VATS): Minimally invasive for management of conditions such as bronchiectasis or lung abscesses due to severe infections like HMPV.
- Thoracic Care: Management of complications due to tuberculosis, lung cancer, pleural effusion, pneumothorax, and the like is treated here.
Dr Amol Bhanushali, with over 15 years of experience, is a recognised pioneer in thoracic surgery with advanced training from prestigious institutions globally and innovative concepts in lung surgery.
Conclusion
Whether chronic lung conditions are exacerbated by HMPV or other thoracic disorders, such advanced therapeutic options are available at Dr Amol Bhanushali Hospital and Centre for Lung Surgery in Thane, under Dr Amol Bhanushali. Thus, one may rest assured of world-class care right at home.
FAQs
What are HMPV symptoms?
Symptoms include cough, fever, and runny nose, usually resembling a cold.
How is HMPV diagnosed?
Primarily by RT-PCR testing of respiratory secretions.