Virology Case Studies
#1
A 20-year-old female is in her third year of college. Usually, she is full of energy. She
enjoys playing sports, dancing, as well as attending parties and other activities on
campus. Before Thanksgiving break, however, she begins to feel extremely run-down.
She has a fever, sore throat and lymphadenopathy. Although she thinks she is getting a
cold, her symptoms fail to improve within a short period of time. She actually begins to
feel better 3 to 6 weeks after the initial onset of symptoms.
1. Name the suspected illness.
2. Is this an RNA or DNA virus?
3. Name the virus that is the causative agent of this illness.
4. Give a brief explanation of the type of testing available to identify this virus.
#2
A 49-year-old male prostitute notices tiny blisters on the tip of his penis. A few days
later, the blisters open and begin to ooze a clear fluid. Then the blisters crust and begin to
heal. Although the lesions are unsightly and inconvenient, they are not life threatening.
1. Name the suspected illness.
2. Is this an RNA or DNA virus?
3. Name the virus that is the causative agent of this condition.
4. Give a brief explanation of the type of testing available to identify this virus.
#3
On one Christmas Eve, a 4-month old baby boy exhibited symptoms of serious illness.
He presented with coughing, fever and wheezing; symptoms consistent with bronchitis
and pneumonia.
1. Name the problem/illness associated with this virus.
2. Is this an RNA or DNA virus?
3. Name the virus that is the causative agent of this illness.
4. What samples are preferred in testing for this virus?
5. Give a brief explanation of the type of testing available to identify this virus.