XMRV and the case for optimism

[Guest guest]

I have read a lot of the comments following release of the XMRV study and it

seems that the overwhelming reaction is one of optimism. I certainly agree that

providing more understanding and scientific credibility to our condition is a

big step forward. But, I have to admit that I am having a hard time feeling

optimistic about the rest of it. My reading is that as a retrovirus, XMRV is

likely to be extremely difficult to treat and probably impossible to eradicate.

Existing antivirals may or may not be effective, are extremely expensive, may

need to be taken indefinitely, and have many serious side effects. It's also

not likely that anyone will be ready to use these on us for several years.

Moreover, the way that XMRV inserts poor copies into our DNA increases our risk

for cancers, leukemia, autoimmune disorders, and more. It's great to be closer

to knowing what is going on with us and to have some options to try to treat it,

but personally I was hoping for somewhat better news. Can somebody help me to

see the more optimistic side of this, because I would really like to be

positive. Thanks and best wishes.