Autoantibodies and common viral illnesses

Semin Arthritis Rheum. 1998 Apr;27(5):263-71. doi: 10.1016/s0049-0172(98)80047-4.

Abstract

Objectives: To review the literature about common autoantibodies produced in association with viral infection.

Methods: Medline review of the medical literature published in English.

Results: Common viral infections are often associated with low-titer, polyspecific autoantibodies. However, high-titer antinuclear antibodies, double-stranded DNA antibodies, anticardiolipin antibodies, and other subtype antibodies may be found. Hepatitis C and B virus, human immunodeficiency virus, and parvovirus B19 appear to be associated with autoantibodies more commonly than other viruses.

Conclusions: Transient autoantibodies resulting from viral infections are not uncommon. Clinical and laboratory follow-up over time will help distinguish between connective tissue disease and self-limited illness.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Autoantibodies / biosynthesis*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Parvoviridae Infections / immunology
  • Virus Diseases / immunology*
  • Viruses / immunology*

Substances

  • Autoantibodies