LYMPHATIC TISSUE IN ARGENTINE HEMORRHAGIC-FEVER - PATHOLOGIC FEATURES

Abstract

Spleen and lymph nodes from 7 fatal [human] cases of Argentine hemorrhagic fever were studied by EM and light microscopy and by immunofluorescent techniques. Junin virus infectivity was determined. Destruction of splenic white pulp and of lymph node cortex was observed. The ultrastructural study showed a characteristic cytopathic effect on the macrophages with presence of intracisternal virus-like particles and occasional virions budding from the plasma membrane. The immunofluorescent techniques indicated the presence of Junin virus antigenic determinants in the cytoplasm of macrophages in the examined organs. Junin virus titers were 3 times higher than in peripheral blood. Lymphatic tissue may be 1 of the main sites of viral replication. The macrophages may be the targets of Junin virus.