Coxsackievirus, also known as coxsackie virus, refers to a group of viruses belonging to the enterovirus genus of the Picornaviridae family. Named after the town of Coxsackie, New York, where the first isolation of this virus occurred, coxsackieviruses are responsible for causing a wide range of illnesses in humans.
These viruses are categorized into two groups, A and B, based on their distinct genetic and antigenic properties. Coxsackieviruses primarily infect the gastrointestinal tract and can also spread to other organs, such as the heart, lungs, and central nervous system. They are transmitted primarily through the fecal-oral route, often by contaminated hands or surfaces, or through respiratory secretions.
Coxsackievirus infections can manifest with various symptoms, including fever, sore throat, headache, cough, and muscle aches. However, the virus is most commonly associated with hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD), which causes painful sores or blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. Additionally, coxsackieviruses can lead to aseptic meningitis, myocarditis, pericarditis, and other severe complications, particularly in infants, young children, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Due to the wide range of clinical presentations, diagnosis of coxsackievirus infections typically involves laboratory analysis of various samples, including throat swabs, stool samples, or cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment for coxsackievirus infections focuses on symptom relief and supportive care, as there are no specific antiviral drugs available. Proper hygiene practices, such as regular hand washing, are essential in preventing the spread of coxsackievirus infections.
