<P> The entry of coxsackievirus into cells, especially endothelial cells, is mediated by Coxsackie virus and adenovirus receptor . </P> <P> Coxsackieviruses are divided into group A and group B viruses based on early observations of their pathogenicity in neonatal mice . Group A coxsackieviruses were noted to cause a flaccid paralysis (which was caused by generalized myositis) while group B coxsackieviruses were noted to cause a spastic paralysis (due to focal muscle injury and degeneration of neuronal tissue). At least 23 serotypes (1--22, 24) of group A and six serotypes (1--6) of group B are recognized . </P> <P> In general, group A coxsackieviruses tend to infect the skin and mucous membranes, causing herpangina, acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, and hand, foot, and mouth (HFM) disease . </P> <P> Both group A and group B coxsackieviruses can cause nonspecific febrile illnesses, rashes, upper respiratory tract disease, and aseptic meningitis . </P>

What is the difference between coxsackie a and b