Viruses and salivary gland disease (SGD): lessons from HIV SGD

Abstract

Viral infections are often associated with salivary gland pathology. Here we review the pathogenesis of HIV-associated salivary gland disease (HIV-SGD), a hallmark of diffuse infiltrative lymphocytosis syndrome. We investigate the presence and contributions of viral diseases to the pathogenesis of salivary gland diseases, particularly HIV-SGD. We have detected BK viral shedding in the saliva of HIV-SGD patients consistent with viral infection and replication, suggesting a role for oral transmission. For further investigation of BKV pathogenesis in salivary glands, an in vitro model of BKV infection is described. Submandibular (HSG) and parotid (HSY) gland salivary cell lines were capable of permissive BKV infection, as determined by BKV gene expression and replication. Analysis of these data collectively suggests the potential for a BKV oral route of transmission and salivary gland pathogenesis within HIV-SGD.

Fig.

HIV-associated salivary gland disease. (A) Detection of elevated BKV salivary levels in HIV SGD as compared with HIV individuals without the disease or with HIV-negative individuals. (B) Detection of labeled BKV virions. White arrows point to BKV virions (green) infecting salivary gland cells. Virions are detected throughout the cytoplasm. Nuclei are stained red. (Reprinted with authors’ consent.)