Question

Which antibody is detected in patients with HAM/TSP? a. anti HTLV-I antibody b. anti HIV-I antibody c. anti ganglioside antibody

Short answer

Answer: Anti HTLV-I antibody

Step-by-step solution

Understand HAM/TSP

HAM/TSP is a neurodegenerative disease caused by the human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1). The disease is characterized by lower limb weakness, spasticity, and urinary incontinence, among other symptoms.

Evaluate Option a: Anti HTLV-I Antibody

Anti HTLV-I antibodies are found in individuals infected with the HTLV-1 virus, which is the causative agent for HAM/TSP. In fact, HAM/TSP is a highly specific illness to HTLV-1 infection, and it develops in a small percentage of infected individuals, indicating a strong link between the presence of anti HTLV-I antibody and HAM/TSP. Thus, this option seems to be correct.

Evaluate Option b: Anti HIV-I Antibody

Anti HIV-I antibodies are detected in individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which primarily attacks the immune system and can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). While HIV infection and HTLV-1 infection may have some similarities, they are distinct viruses and cause different diseases. Therefore, the presence of anti HIV-I antibody is not related to HAM/TSP.

Evaluate Option c: Anti Ganglioside Antibody

Anti ganglioside antibodies are associated with autoimmune diseases affecting the nervous system, such as Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) and some types of neuropathies. Gangliosides are a type of glycolipid found in the cell membranes of neurons. Although anti ganglioside antibodies are linked to some neurological conditions, they are not specific to HAM/TSP, as they are not related to HTLV-1 infection.

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of the given options, the correct answer is option a, anti HTLV-I antibody, as it is the antibody detected in patients with HAM/TSP.