Nephropathia epidemica (hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome) in Scandinavia

Abstract

Nephropathia epidemica (NE) in Scandinavia is a zoonosis caused by Puumala virus. The main animal reservoir is the bank vole. NE predominantly affects men. Its annual incidence varies in a cyclic fashion, with peaks occurring every third to fourth year. The clinical picture of NE in Scandinavia is similar to that of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in other parts of the world, although NE generally has a milder course. The case-fatality rate is approximately 0.2%. The most common clinical findings in NE are an acute onset of symptoms, fever (greater than or equal to 38 degrees C), oliguria, headache, back pain, and polyuria. Hemorrhagic manifestations are seen in about one-third of cases, and up to 5% of patients have gastrointestinal bleeding or disseminated intravascular coagulation. Thrombocytopenia occurs in a majority of patients. In the acute phase, the glomerular filtration rate is markedly decreased and tubular dysfunction is evident. Most patients with NE recover within 6 months.